Russian+Money

=The Ruble=




 * · What symbols, other visual elements, on currency say about a nation’s values?**

Most prominent among the symbols on the Russian Ruble are images of buildings, monuments and other structures, many of which are hundreds of years old. Some date to the mid 11th century. This suggests that Russians value their long shared history. Their national identity is tightly linked to the shared narrative of Russia’s past. It also tells me that they value Russian industry and ingenuity over the contributions of individuals. Perhaps it’s a reflection of a culture that downplays the importance of individuals by showcasing feats of the collective.


 * · What is emphasized? Religion? Government? History? Abstract principles (democratic symbols on Dollar)?**

History. Ruble notes feature cathedrals, forts, a bridge, a theatre — all structures that bear historical significance in Russia. Interestingly, the few individuals who appear on Russia’s paper currency are depicted in monuments. By historicizing these important figures, they become symbolic of all of Russia rather than of a single person.


 * · How is color used? Why?**

Ruble notes, although not flashy, are more colorful than American money. The variety in color gives the currency a fresh, modern feel that contrasts with the West’s image of Russia as a sluggish and cold society.


 * · What political statements or philosophies are being articulated through symbols?**

I think the look of the currency may be a push against Russia’s Soviet image. The first thing I noticed was the absence of Soviet or Communist icons: no Lenin, no Trotsky. Further, all but one of the structures pictured on the notes date prior to the Communist revolution. That is not incidental. With the Soviet ideology no longer binding them, Russia’s leaders appeal to Russians’ sense of shared history, to their sense of being part of an ancient people, to bind the nation.


 * · How might a traveler “read” the currency differently than a citizen?**

A traveler not paying thought to what’s behind the images on Russia’s money probably wouldn’t appreciate the historical meaning behind the structures featured on the bills. As a corollary, a traveler would not experience the emotional content these images carry. A well-taken shot of the Washington monument may fill Americans with national pride; the same photo, to a foreigner, may be nothing more than a tall piece of stone.


 * · What is conspicuously absent? Why?**

When compared to American currency, the Ruble holds very few elements related to officialdom.