Large antique 1912 Russian 500 rubles banknote from the Empire era, obverse with ornate frame featuring portrait of Tsar Peter I the Great in oval at left and seated allegorical female figure representing Mother Russia at right amid flowers and cherubs, blue-green tones, imperial crown and decorations, Cyrillic text "500 РУБЛЕЙ", folded and aged paper with red "ОБРАЗЦА" overprint on right, reverse shows Peter I portrait and green designs.

1912 Russian Empire 500 Rubles State Credit Note – Peter the Great & Allegorical Mother Russia (Specimen)

Large antique 1912 Russian 500 rubles banknote from the Empire era, obverse with ornate frame featuring portrait of Tsar Peter I the Great in oval at left and seated allegorical female figure representing Mother Russia at right amid flowers and cherubs, blue-green tones, imperial crown and decorations, Cyrillic text “500 РУБЛЕЙ”, folded and aged paper with red “ОБРАЗЦА” overprint on right, reverse shows Peter I portrait and green designs.

Price:

$ 120

Expert

Aram Razzaghi

get in touch: 3843876

Description

This is an original 1912 State Credit Note of the Russian Empire for 500 rubles. Measuring approximately 275 x 128 mm, it is renowned as one of the largest banknotes issued by Imperial Russia. The obverse displays a detailed engraved portrait of Emperor Peter I (the Great) in an ornate oval frame, based on historical artwork, alongside a majestic seated allegorical figure symbolizing Russia (crowned, robed, with scepter and floral elements). The design includes intricate guilloche patterns, imperial symbols, and repeated denominations in Cyrillic. The reverse features Peter I at left with green ornamental elements and coat of arms. Watermarks include “500” patterns and Peter’s bust. This example bears a red “ОБРАЗЦА” overprint (indicating specimen/proof status, not for circulation). Issued during Nicholas II’s reign as part of the final high-denomination series before the 1917 Revolution, these notes exemplify late Tsarist artistry and security features. Highly collectible for their size, engraving quality, and historical ties to Peter the Great’s legacy.