1 peso 1961

Common. This is a regular-issue banknote from 1961 with substantial circulation throughout its issuing period. eBay market data confirms common status, with UNC examples selling for $2.49 to $6.10 in recent transactions, and the 2019 catalogue value for UNC being $9. The note was produced in significant quantities by Banco de la República and remains readily available to collectors at modest prices.

This banknote was issued during a period of Colombian economic stabilization under the Banco de la República's monetary authority. The depicted portraits—Simon Bolívar (left) and General Francisco de Paula Santander (right)—represent two of Colombia's founding fathers and independence leaders, reflecting the nation's pride in its revolutionary heritage. The condor symbol on the reverse, combined with the mountainous landscape, represents Colombia's natural patrimony and geographic identity during the early post-WWII republic period.

The obverse features two portrait medallions in profile: Simon Bolívar on the left in military dress uniform with a high collar (facing left), and General Francisco de Paula Santander on the right in formal civilian attire with bow tie (facing right). These portraits frame an elaborate central ornament consisting of a radiating sunburst or fan design with flanking laurel wreaths, symbolizing national honor and achievement. The entire composition is bordered by an ornate geometric frame pattern. The reverse depicts a large, dynamically rendered condor or eagle in flight with fully extended wings, positioned above a detailed landscape showing Colombian mountains and terrain. A circular medallion at the top contains a female profile (representing Liberty or the Republic) facing left, surrounded by institutional text. Shell or fan-like ornamental devices appear on either side of the medallion. Both sides utilize blue, red, and black printing on a light cream underprint.

Front side: 'EL BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA' (The Bank of the Republic); 'PAGARA AL PORTADOR' (Payable to Bearer); 'UN PESO ORO' (One Gold Peso); 'ENERO 2 DE 1961' (January 2, 1961); 'GERENTE' (Manager); 'SECRETARIO' (Secretary); Serial number: '0190262'. Back side: 'BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA' (Bank of the Republic); 'BOGOTA COLOMBIA' (Bogotá, Colombia); 'PESO ORO' (Gold Peso); Denomination marker: '1'.

The note demonstrates fine line engraving throughout, characteristic of intaglio printing technology employed by Colombia's primary currency printer during this period. The detailed portrait work, intricate geometric border patterns, fine line security work, and multi-color registration all indicate professional-grade intaglio engraving with careful color separation. This was the standard technology for high-security banknote production during the 1961 era.

This note is catalogued as Pick P-404b, with the date of January 2, 1961 ('ENERO 2 DE 1961') printed on the obverse. The Pick catalog identifies at least three variants for the base Pick number P-404 (P-404d, P-404e, and P-404s2, all denominated as 1 Peso Oro). This specific example represents the standard P-404b variety. The serial number observed (0190262) is consistent with regular circulation series issued during this period. No significant overprints, color shifts, or printing anomalies are evident in the visual analysis that would indicate an error variety or special issue.