Russian Empire 50 Ruble Assignat, 1786 (1786-1819 Period)
Russian Empire
1786
1786-1819
50
N° 249194
Style
The assignat features a classical design characteristic of the late 18th and early 19th-century Russian Empire. The central motif is a stylized double-headed Imperial Eagle, crowned, with a shield depicting Saint George slaying the dragon on its breast. The eagle holds a scepter in one talon and an orb in the other, framed by a laurel wreath. The text is in Old Russian script. The banknote has intricate geometric and floral patterns forming its borders, which served as a basic security feature. The overall appearance is distinct, printed in a single dominant blue color for this denomination.
Description
This is a historically significant 50 Ruble assignat from the Russian Empire, issued during the crucial 1786-1819 period. This note represents the second major series of assignats, which were standardized in color and denomination and played a pivotal role in the Russian financial system. The blue color specifically identified the 50 ruble denomination within this series. The central Imperial Double-Headed Eagle underscores the state backing of the currency. The inscription clearly states that this 'State Assignat for Fifty Rubles is equal to circulating coin,' reinforcing its legal tender status. Despite its heavily circulated and damaged condition, this assignat is a tangible piece of Russian economic history, reflecting the challenges and innovations in early paper money issuance. It is an excellent collectible for numismatists and historians interested in the monetary policies of the Russian Empire and the transition from metallic to paper currency.