10 colones 1972 specimen

Common. Despite being a specimen note, this variety circulates regularly in the numismatic market at modest valuations. eBay transaction data shows consistent sales in the $16–$69.99 USD range for uncirculated examples, with a 2019 catalogue value of $35 USD. The specimen designation and the 1972 printing date do not indicate scarcity; Thomas de la Rue produced these in quantities sufficient to distribute to financial institutions across El Salvador. Specimen notes are generally more available than regular circulation notes because they were preserved rather than spent.

Issued during a period of relative monetary stability in El Salvador (1971-1976), this note commemorates two significant historical figures: Manuel José Arce, El Salvador's first president and founding father, and Christopher Columbus, honoring the colonial connection between Spain and Central America. The specimen marking and careful preservation reflect the practice of central banks distributing non-negotiable samples to banks and institutions for familiarization with new currency designs.

The obverse features a right-facing profile portrait of Manuel José Arce, El Salvador's first president (1823-1828), positioned on the right side of the note in formal attire with high collar. The design is dominated by an ornate circular rosette pattern in the center, with elaborate engraved borders containing intricate geometric and floral motifs typical of high-security banknote design. Corner denominations display '10' in large numerals, and the national emblem elements are integrated into the decorative border framework. The reverse presents a formal bust-style portrait of Christopher Columbus (Cristóbal Colón) in an oval frame, centered and featuring his characteristic shoulder-length curly hair. Large denomination numerals '10' flank the portrait on both sides, with ornamental circular framing around the medallion. The reverse background features fine crosshatch patterns and detailed engraving work. Both sides incorporate the red specimen overprint applied diagonally across the note.

FRONT: 'EL BANCO CENTRAL DE RESERVA DE EL SALVADOR' (The Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador) | 'PAGARA EN EFECTIVO AL PORTADOR' (Will pay in cash to the bearer) | 'SAN SALVADOR, 24 DE OCTUBRE DE 1972' (San Salvador, October 24, 1972) | 'DIEZ COLONES' (Ten Colones) | 'SERIE KA' (Series KA) | 'MANUEL JOSÉ ARCE' | 'MUESTRA SIN VALOR' (Specimen without value) | 'DIRECTOR', 'PRESIDENTE', 'GERENTE' (Director, President, Manager—signature lines). BACK: 'BANCO CENTRAL DE RESERVA DE EL SALVADOR' (Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador) | 'DIEZ COLONES' (Ten Colones) | 'CRISTOBAL COLON' (Christopher Columbus) | 'MUESTRA SIN VALOR' (Specimen without value) | 'THOMAS DE LA RUE & COMPANY, LIMITED' (printer attribution).

Steel plate intaglio (engraved line) printing, the standard security printing method for high-value currency. Executed by Thomas de la Rue & Company, Limited, London, one of the world's premier currency security printers. The visual characteristics—crisp fine line work, intricate crosshatch backgrounds, detailed facial engraving in the portraits, and complex ornamental patterns—are all hallmarks of intaglio printing. The specimen overprint appears to have been applied as a secondary impression.

This note is identified as Pick P-118s (the 's' suffix denoting specimen status). The visual analysis confirms the Series KA designation and the specific date of October 24, 1972. The serial number visible is '00000800' on the front. The note exhibits the standard 1971–1976 issue window for this denomination and design, with the Thomas de la Rue printer mark and reference number '41 72 039' on the reverse. No significant varieties (signature variations, major overprint differences, or printing errors) are apparent from the visual data; this represents the standard specimen printing of this design.