About the title
Russia, the early '90s. The country is in the midst of a painful transition from an over-centralized planned economy to market relations. Ordinary people, who had previously lived in conditions of stability, are confused and frightened. Everything is in motion; the course of history is unfolding before everyone's eyes. Turning points in history always give rise to all manner of impostors and talented swindlers. Sergei Mamontov is looking for a way to put himself and his intellect to use. And he finds one. Mamontov commissions a mock-up of a "security" adorned with imperial scrollwork, rich ornamentation, watermarks, and his own portrait right in the center. He sets the price of his "money" himself and sells it on the principle that today it's always worth more than yesterday. An active advertising campaign begins. Just over two weeks turns out to be enough for people to start lining up for "Mamontovkas," and Mamontov becomes something close to a national hero. Conspiracies, kidnappings, chases, contract killings. And a little love.