1 peso 1969

Common. Despite the artistic merit and historical significance of this design, this issue had substantial circulation throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. eBay market data confirms this assessment: uncirculated examples have sold for $6–$56 in recent years, with most circulated grades commanding under $3. The 2019 catalog value of $6 in UNC condition and the consistent availability of examples at modest prices indicate a healthy supply in the collector market. This is a standard regular issue of Banco de la República with no evidence of limited print runs or scarcity.

Issued during a period of relative stability in Colombia's economic history, this 1969 note commemorates the nation's founding figures through its carefully composed portraits. The condor and volcanic landscape on the reverse symbolize Colombia's natural heritage and national identity, while the laurel wreaths and formal design reflect the civic values of the Banco de la República during the 1960s. The 'Peso Oro' (Gold Peso) designation references the historical standard of Colombian currency, even as this note circulated as fiat currency.

The obverse features two prominent historical figures in oval portrait medallions: Simón Bolívar (left, in military dress with collar insignia) and Francisco de Paula Santander (right, in formal civilian attire with bow tie). These are separated by an ornamental central design incorporating a peacock or bird with elaborate tail feathers surrounded by laurel wreaths, symbolizing freedom and honor. The reverse displays Colombia's national symbol—a soaring condor with spread wings in flight, clutching an olive branch or laurel sprig—positioned above a detailed landscape featuring mountains, a snow-capped volcano, and tropical vegetation. The entire design is framed by intricate geometric and floral border patterns in blue and red, with formal text and denomination markings distributed around the composition.

Front side: 'EL BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA' (The Bank of the Republic), 'PAGARA AL PORTADOR' (Will pay to the bearer), 'UN PESO ORO' (One Gold Peso), 'ENERO 2 DE 1969' (January 2, 1969), 'GERENTE' (Manager), 'SECRETARIO' (Secretary), Serial number: 70147029. Back side: 'BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA' (Bank of the Republic), 'PESO ORO' (Gold Peso) [appears twice], 'COLOMBIA COLOMBIANA' (Colombian Colombia/Colombia proper).

Intaglio engraving (copperplate/steel plate printing), characterized by the fine detailed line work, precise portraiture, and complex geometric border patterns visible throughout both sides. The multi-color design suggests sequential intaglio printing passes in blue, red, and black inks on a beige/cream paper stock. This was the standard security printing technology employed by Banco de la República during this period, likely produced by the bank's internal security printing facilities or contracted to a specialized security printer such as De La Rue or American Bank Note Company.

This example is identified as P-404d based on the Pick catalog system. The PMG population report indicates three cataloged variants for the base Pick number 404 (P-404d, P-404e, and P-404s2). The observed date of January 2, 1969, and the serial number prefix help identify this specific variety within the broader 1966–1969 series. Collectors should note that Banco de la República issued this denomination across multiple date variants (documented as 1966, 2.7.1967, 1.2.1968, 2.1.1969) with potentially different signature combinations; the P-404d designation refers to a specific signature or printer variant.