2 pesos 1942

Common. Market data from eBay sales shows this note trades regularly at modest prices, with similar condition grades (F-VF) selling consistently between $3.36 and $14.51 over multiple transactions spanning several years (2017-2022). The 2016 catalog value of $0.50 in VG condition and $4 in VF reflects widespread availability. The extended print period (1942-1955) and high production volume by a major security printer indicate no scarcity factors.

This 1942 issue represents a transitional period in Colombian monetary policy under the Banco de la República, established in 1923 as the central bank. The note's dual portraits—featuring a historical Colombian figure and Liberty—reflect the nation's Republican ideals and connection to broader Latin American independence movements of the 19th century. Produced during World War II by the American Bank Note Company in New York, this currency embodies the technical expertise and international relationships that characterized Colombia's modernizing financial institutions in the mid-20th century.

The obverse features a formal portrait of what the catalog identifies as a 19th-century Colombian figure (likely a national hero or founding figure) depicted in profile facing left within a circular oval frame, dressed in formal dark coat and period attire. The reverse showcases a classical Liberty design with a female head in profile facing right within a circular medallion inscribed with 'REPUBLICA DE COLOMBIA,' flanked by baroque winged ornamental elements. Both sides employ elaborate decorative cartouches, geometric borders, and floral scroll work typical of high-security currency design. The front utilizes tan and beige with red and green accents, while the reverse features purple/violet toning with black line work. The overall design reflects the American Bank Note Company's signature ornate engraving style.

Front side: 'EL BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA' (The Bank of the Republic); 'SERIE I' (Series 1); 'DOS PESOS ORO' (Two Pesos Gold); 'BOGOTA, COLOMBIA' (Bogota, Colombia); '20 DE JULIO DE 1943' (July 20, 1943); 'PAGARA AL PORTADOR' (Payable to Bearer); 'GERENTE' (Manager); 'SECRETARIO' (Secretary); 'AMERICAN BANKNOTE COMPANY' (American Banknote Company); Serial number 7088920. Back side: 'REPUBLICA DE COLOMBIA' (Republic of Colombia); 'DOS PESOS ORO' (Two Pesos Gold); 'AMERICAN BANKNOTE COMPANY' (American Banknote Company).

Intaglio engraving (line engraving) throughout, executed by the American Bank Note Company of New York. Security features include fine-line engraving on portraits, intricate geometric and floral patterns in corner cartouches, ornate baroque-style flourishes, and detailed border designs. The multi-color printing shows careful registration of tan/beige base with red and green elements on the obverse, and purple/violet on the reverse, all characteristic of high-security banknote production of the era.

Series I variety noted in red on the obverse (as indicated in visual analysis and confirmed by community catalog references). The note is dated 20 July 1943 on the obverse, though the official catalog designation is 1942, reflecting the design approval date. Serial number 7088920 places this within the standard production series. The 'PAGARA AL PORTADOR' (payable to bearer) clause and signature lines for GERENTE and SECRETARIO are standard for this issue, with variant signatures existing across different specimens.