50 pesos 1964

Common. This is a regular-issue note with a documented print run spanning 1958-1967, and the eBay market data provided shows consistent sales activity across multiple condition grades, with UNC examples cataloging at $70 (2019 value) but actual market realizations ranging from $8-$18.50 in recent years. The Series Z designation and January 1, 1964 date indicate this was part of a standard circulation release rather than a special or limited edition. The abundance of comparable sales and stable pricing patterns are strong indicators of common status.

Issued on January 1, 1964, by the Banco de la República, this note commemorates Antonio José de Sucre, the Venezuelan-born military leader instrumental in South American independence and the founder of Bolivia (originally named Sucre in his honor). The inclusion of Liberty as the reverse allegorical figure reflects the broader post-colonial emphasis on freedom and independence that characterized mid-20th century Colombian currency design. This note was produced during a period of relative economic stability in Colombia, under the framework of the Pax Andina monetary policy.

The obverse features a finely engraved portrait of General Antonio José de Sucre in military dress with decorated uniform collar, positioned in profile facing right within an ornate oval frame on the left side of the note. The composition employs classical baroque-style ornamentation with elaborate floral and scrollwork elements in all corners, intricate filigree patterns, and a prominent central ornamental cartouche containing the denomination. The reverse presents an allegorical Liberty figure in classical style, shown in profile facing right within a large circular frame at the center, surrounded by complementary baroque ornamental designs, rosette patterns, and repeated denomination motifs. The color palette—mauve and rose-brown on the obverse, transitioning to green and mauve on the reverse—creates visual distinction between sides while maintaining design cohesion through consistent ornamentation and typography.

FRONT: 'EL BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA' (The Bank of the Republic); 'CINCUENTA PESOS ORO' (Fifty Gold Pesos); 'PARA SER PORTADOR' (To be carried/for bearer); '1º DE ENERO DE 1964' (January 1st, 1964); 'BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA' (Bogotá, Colombia); 'GERENTE' (Manager); 'SECRETARIO' (Secretary); 'AMERICAN BANK NOTE COMPANY' (American Bank Note Company); Serial number '21888960'; 'SERIE Z' (Series Z); Denomination '50'. BACK: 'BANCO DE LA REPUBLICA' (Bank of the Republic); 'CINCUENTA PESOS ORO' (Fifty Gold Pesos); 'AMERICAN BANK NOTE COMPANY' (American Bank Note Company); Denomination '50'.

Intaglio engraving, executed by the American Bank Note Company of New York, as credited on both the obverse and reverse. The visual evidence of complex background patterns, fine line work, precise cross-hatching, and intricate baroque-style security printing throughout confirms the sophisticated multi-plate engraving technique typical of ABNC's premium currency production. The note displays the characteristic sharp definition and dimensional quality achievable only through intaglio printing, with no evidence of offset or lithographic processes.

This note is identified as Series Z, issued January 1, 1964, with serial number 21888960. The Pick catalog designation P-402b indicates this is a known variety within the 50 Pesos Oro series. Series Z represents one of the standard series releases during the 1964 circulation period. No evidence of overprints, date variations, or other significant variety markers are visible on this specimen, suggesting it represents the standard variety for this denomination and date.