1 rubel 1898
“Sig.Sofronov”
About This Note
This is a striking example of the 1898 Russian Imperial 1 Ruble note (Pick-1d(8)), graded VF and signed by Sofronov. The note displays exceptional classical design work with its distinctive blue-grey front featuring paired double-headed eagles in ornate medallions and a cream central panel, contrasted by the reddish-brown reverse centered on a grand eagle coat of arms. The preservation is excellent for a note of this age, with only minor foxing and age-appropriate discoloration, minimal creasing, and no significant damage—making it a desirable example of late Imperial Russian currency.
Common. The 1898 Russian 1 Ruble note was produced in substantial quantities during its circulation period and remains relatively available in the collector market today. While this specific Pick variety (P-1d(8)) may have minor variations distinguishing it from related issues, notes of this denomination and period are not scarce. The VF condition grade is well-represented in collections, and contemporary market evidence suggests these notes trade at accessible price points typical of early Imperial Russian currency.
This credit note was issued during the final years of Tsarist Russia under the gold standard system, as evidenced by the inscriptions declaring the State Bank's obligation to exchange notes for currency without limitation and specifying the gold content (17.424 doisties of fine gold per ruble). The ornate Imperial iconography—particularly the double-headed eagle with crown, orb, and scepter prominently displayed on both sides—reflects the authority and prestige of the Russian Empire during the height of the Romanov dynasty's power.
The front side presents a formal classical composition dominated by ornate architectural framing with Corinthian-capped columns, decorative urns, and scrollwork. Flanking the central rectangular panel are the Russian Imperial double-headed eagle coat of arms set within elaborate medallions, each eagle wearing its imperial crown and holding the orb and scepter of sovereignty. The central panel features draped fabric design with text and administrative signatures (Managing Director and Cashier), bordered by intricate geometric and floral patterns including laurel wreaths. The year 1898 is prominently displayed at bottom center. The reverse presents a monochromatic reddish-brown design with the Imperial double-headed eagle as the dominant focal point, centrally placed within a large circular medallion surrounded by ornamental borders. Oak leaves and laurel branches constitute the botanical ornamentation surrounding the eagle. The left side bears the large Cyrillic denomination 'РУБЛЬ' (Ruble). Both sides demonstrate the sophisticated heraldic tradition of Imperial Russia's monetary system.
FRONT SIDE: 'ГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫЙ КРЕДИТНЫЙ БИЛЕТ' (State Credit Note) / 'ОДИН РУБЛЬ' (One Ruble) / 'Государственный Банк разъявляет кредитные билеты на допущению монету везь ограничения суммы' (The State Bank exchanges credit notes for currency without limitation of amount) / 'р = 1/6 империала, содержит 17,424 доцей чистого золота' (1 ruble = 1/6 imperial, contains 17.424 dotsies of fine gold) / 'Управляющий' (Managing Director) / 'Кассир' (Cashier) / 'КК 298544' (Serial number) / '1898' (Year). BACK SIDE: 'РУБЛЬ' (Ruble) / 'Рассчитан согласно старинным кредитным билетам на золоту ходу обеспечиваются всем государственным' (Calculated according to old credit notes with gold backing ensured by all state resources) / Additional partially visible state credit note inscriptions and text in upper right corner (largely illegible in reproduction).
Intaglio (recess) printing, the standard method for producing Russian Imperial banknotes of this period. The fine line work, cross-hatching, detailed geometric patterns, and the sharp definition of the engraved elements visible in the visual analysis are characteristic of high-quality intaglio production. The Russian Imperial State Printing Works (Экспедиция Заготовления Государственных Бумаг) produced these notes using traditional copperplate engraving techniques, ensuring the complex security features and ornate designs were rendered with precision.
The Pick catalog designation P-1d(8) indicates this is the eighth variety of the 1d type for the 1898 1 Ruble issue. The serial number КК 298544 provides a specific identifier for this individual note. The signature notation 'Sig.Sofronov' (likely the Managing Director signature variant) is a potential variety marker. Russian Imperial notes from this period exist in multiple signature combinations and serial number series; collectors should verify the specific signature pairing and series prefix to confirm the exact variety. The presence of Sofronov's signature suggests this example from his term of office, potentially distinguishing it from notes signed by other officials.
