500 Russian Rubles Banknote (1997)

500 Rubley Ruble (Issued 1997-2010)

The Arkhangelsk, a Russian sailing ship of historical significance, dominates the obverse design of this 500 Rubley denomination banknote. The vessel represents Russia’s maritime heritage and naval tradition, making it a fitting centrepiece for one of the higher-value notes in the 1997 currency reform series. The designers chose this iconic ship to underscore Russia’s connection to seafaring and exploration. This choice reflects the broader thematic approach taken across the reformed ruble series, which celebrates significant aspects of Russian culture and history.

On the front, a standing male figure in period dress appears prominently to the left of the Arkhangelsk, rendered in detailed engraving with fine line work characteristic of security printing. The denomination “500” appears in large numerals in the upper left and lower left corners, with the text “ПЯТЬСОТ РУБЛЕЙ” (five hundred roubles) printed across the bottom in bold sans-serif typography. The issuing authority “БИЛЕТ БАНКА РОССИИ” (Bank of Russia Note) is positioned across the top in capital letters. A security strip runs vertically through the design, featuring intricate guilloché patterns and circular ornamental medallions in mauve and cream tones. The serial number “ВЗ 7051453” appears twice on the obverse in the upper and lower left margins. The overall colour palette consists of mauve, purple, and cream tones, with finely detailed engraving throughout creating depth and texture across the banknote’s surface.

The reverse depicts an architectural ensemble featuring buildings and fortifications along a waterfront, rendered in soft mauve and purple tones with careful engraving detail. A sailing vessel appears on the water in the foreground, complementing the maritime theme established on the obverse. The denomination “500” is repeated in large numerals in both the upper left and upper right corners, with the text “ПЯТЬСОТ РУБЛЕЙ” appearing again in the lower left area. Horizontal security lines run across the lower portion of the design. The date “1997” is printed in the lower right corner, marking the year of the currency reform that introduced this series. The reverse maintains the same colour scheme and engraving quality as the obverse, with ornamental patterns visible in the side margins featuring geometric and circular designs in complementary mauve and cream shades.

This 500 Rubley banknote can be exchanged through Webuyallcurrency.com, where current Russian Rubles banknotes are bought alongside other foreign currency — ideal for clearing a drawer of mixed coins and notes at once.

• Indicate the quantity of 500 Rubley Ruble banknotes you want to exchange
• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button
• Your online account now shows the exchange value

If you have leftover currency to exchange, Webuyallcurrency.com accepts Russian Rubles banknotes and a wide range of other foreign coins and notes, paying out for the lot in a single straightforward transaction.

Other Russian Rubles you can exchange: 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, 50000.