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The first mention about ruble appeared in century when it was a main currency of Novgorod Velikiy. It is the oldest currency except British pound. Firstly, the coin’s weight was 200 grams and the length could reach about 20 centimeters. There are two different opinions about the origin of ruble. Both theories are approved and considered as true. Nevertheless, our ancestors, who lived 700 ago, exchanged rubles to some goods.

In early 13 century bars of rubles were becoming more popular. But, eventually, the government faced the problem of shortage of silver. This metal was essential to produce coins. In this way, Dmitry Donskoy ordered to start a production of small and lightweight coin which would become a replacement for large bars. This solution was quickly appreciated by people from different estates. Ruble was equaled in all provinces. If a merchant wanted to sell his products in another principality, he did not have to change the currency.