1 peso 1945

Common. This note is from the standard circulation series (1929-1954) with a print run spanning over two decades. eBay market data shows recent sales at modest prices ($4.50 to $122 USD depending on condition, with catalog values for UNC at $18 as of 2016). The relatively modest pricing and consistent availability in the secondary market indicate this is a common issue. Series R notes from this period are regularly encountered by collectors and dealers.

This banknote was issued during the mid-20th century when Colombia sought to stabilize its currency and modernize its financial institutions under the Banco de la República. The prominent depiction of General Santander and Simón Bolívar reflects Colombia's reverence for its founding independence leaders, while the allegorical Liberty figure on the reverse symbolizes the nation's commitment to republican ideals. The 'Oro' (gold) designation in the denomination reflects the historical gold standard that underpinned currency valuation during this period.

The obverse features two portrait medallions: General Francisco de Paula Santander in military dress with decorations in an oval frame on the left, and Simón Bolívar in military profile on the right. Between these portraits is an ornate shield design with decorative flourishes in pink/red and blue tones serving as the central focal point. Allegorical figures flank the shield—a seated female figure on the left (representing Liberty or Justice) and a classical male figure on the right. Corner medallions marked with '1' contain ornamental floral designs. The reverse displays a large central circular portrait of an allegorical Liberty figure in classical profile with long hair, surrounded by elaborate ornate framing with guilloche work. Symmetrical floral medallion patterns and fleur-de-lis designs occupy all four corners. The color scheme is predominantly blue and tan with pink/red accents on the obverse and blue on cream on the reverse.

Front side: 'EL BANCO DE LA REPÚBLICA' (The Bank of the Republic); 'PAGARÁ AL PORTADOR' (Payable to the Bearer); 'UN PESO ORO' (One Gold Peso); 'SERIE R' (Series R); 'No 85235768' (Serial Number 85235768); 'BOGOTA, COLOMBIA, 6 DE ENERO DE 1945' (Bogota, Colombia, January 6, 1945); 'SECRETARIO' (Secretary); 'AMERICAN BANK NOTE COMPANY' (printer attribution). Back side: 'BANCO DE LA REPÚBLICA' (Bank of the Republic); 'COLOMBIA'; 'UN PESO ORO' (One Gold Peso); '1' (denomination numeral); 'AMERICAN BANK NOTE COMPANY' (printer attribution).

Steel engraving with intaglio printing, executed by the American Bank Note Company of New York. The visual analysis confirms fine line engraving throughout both sides, with intricate guilloche patterns, complex border designs, and detailed background line work characteristic of intaglio security printing. The ornate shield, allegorical figures, portrait medallions, and decorative elements all demonstrate the high-quality craftsmanship typical of ABNC's work during this period.

This note is identified as Pick P-380d based on the catalog data provided. The visual analysis confirms Series R designation in blue ink on the obverse. The specific date shown is January 6, 1945 ('6 DE ENERO DE 1945'), and the serial number visible is 85235768. The PMG population report indicates five cataloged variants (P-380a, P-380b, P-380d, P-380e, P-380g, P-380s) exist for this base Pick number, likely differentiated by series letters, date variants, or signature combinations. Without comparison images, the specific distinguishing characteristics of the P-380d variety cannot be definitively confirmed beyond the Series R designation observed.