5 pesos 1940

Common. This note remains relatively common in numismatic circulation, evidenced by eBay auction prices from 2014-2019 ranging from $1.25 to $22.50 depending on condition grade, with most VF-EF examples selling for $7-$12. The 2016 catalog valuation of $10 for UNC condition aligns with the observed market performance. The broad print run across the 1932-1942 series, combined with the straightforward design and lack of known major varieties, places this issue squarely in common category despite its historical significance.

Issued during the 1932-1942 series under the administration of the Banco Central de Chile (established 1925), this 5 Pesos note represents Chile's mid-20th century currency before decimalization. The portrait of Bernardo O'Higgins, Chile's founding father and Supreme Director, reflects the nation's emphasis on national heroes during the post-Depression era. The notation 'Convertible into gold according to law' on the front indicates this note was issued during the gold standard period, before Chile's monetary system underwent significant reform in subsequent decades.

The obverse features a three-quarter profile portrait of Bernardo O'Higgins positioned within an ornate oval frame on the right side of the note, depicted in formal military dress uniform with decorative regalia and insignia. The portrait is rendered without a nameplate beneath it, a distinguishing characteristic of this variety (as noted in catalog references distinguishing it from P-102, P-110, and P-119 which include names). The reverse displays a large ornate numeral '5' in the left portion with architectural elements visible in the upper background, likely representing a fortification or government building. Both sides feature the bank's circular seal or emblem with an eagle design, ornamental geometric border patterns throughout for security purposes, and the denomination repeated at multiple corners. The color palette of blue ink on cream/beige background is consistent throughout.

FRONT: 'BANCO CENTRAL DE CHILE' (Central Bank of Chile), 'CINCO PESOS' (Five Pesos), 'MEDIO CONDOR' (Half Condor - alternate denomination name), '24-IV-1940' (April 24, 1940 - issue date), 'CONVERTIBLES EN ORO CONFORME A LA LEY' (Convertible into gold according to law), 'GERENTE GENERAL' (General Manager - signature line), 'TALLERES DE ESPECIES VALORADAS - SANTIAGO, CHILE' (Valued Species Workshops - Santiago, Chile - printer), serial number '093412'. BACK: 'BANCO CENTRAL DE CHILE' (Central Bank of Chile), 'CINCO PESOS' (Five Pesos), 'BANCO CENTRAL DE CHILE - SANTIAGO CHILE' (as inscribed in circular seal).

This banknote was produced using engraved steel plate intaglio printing, the standard security printing method for currency of this era. The fine line engraving is evident throughout the design with intricate geometric patterns, detailed portraiture, and architectural elements. The printer was Talleres de Especies Valoradas (Valued Species Workshops) located in Santiago, Chile, as indicated on the face of the note. The watermark (visible as the large white oval security feature in both images) was incorporated during the paper manufacturing stage prior to printing, a common security measure for notes of this period.

This specific note is identified as variety P-91c, distinguished by the absence of a name under the portrait of Bernardo O'Higgins. Related varieties in the same series include P-102, P-110, and P-119, which feature the portrait with an inscribed name beneath it. The dated issue of April 24, 1940 places this note within the documented 1935-1942 issuance window. Signature varieties are known to exist within this Pick number designation. Serial number 093412 is visible on the front, though without comprehensive documentation of serial number ranges by variety, this specific example cannot be assigned to a particular printing or signature variant without additional research.