5 pesos 1914

Common. While emergency currency issued by Chihuahua during the Mexican Revolution possesses historical significance, Series C 5 pesos notes from this 1914 issuance were produced in substantial quantities to facilitate commerce in the region. The presence of detailed serial numbering (1626221) and series designation indicates organized, large-scale production rather than limited emergency printing. Notes from this issuing authority and denomination regularly appear in collections and markets at modest valuations, reflecting adequate supply in the numismatic market.

This note was issued under military decree (dated February 10, 1914) by the State of Chihuahua, reflecting the chaotic financial conditions of the Mexican Revolution when regional governments issued their own currency due to the collapse of central authority. The architectural building depicted on the reverse likely represents a significant Chihuahuan government structure, while the dual male portraits on the obverse probably honor regional political or military leadership of the Constitutionalist faction controlling the state at that time. The prominent 'Sombrero General del Estado' (State Seal) with eagle emblem underscores Chihuahua's assertion of sovereignty during this period of fragmentary control.

The obverse features two bearded male portraits in ornate circular medallions positioned symmetrically on the left and right sides, likely representing regional military or political leaders from the Constitutionalist movement (possibly including figures like Venustiano Carranza or local commanders). The denomination '5' appears in elaborate ornamental circles in all four corners, with Roman numeral 'V' designs in the lower corners. The reverse showcases a detailed classical architectural engraving depicting a multi-story institutional building with columned facade and a courtyard scene populated with crowds and horses, typical of civic or governmental structures from Chihuahua. Both sides feature elaborate scrollwork borders and geometric decorative patterns characteristic of early 20th-century Mexican banknote design. The color scheme of pink/salmon obverse and bright magenta/red reverse is distinctive and vibrant.

FRONT: 'El Estado de Chihuahua' (The State of Chihuahua) / 'Pagará al portador, en efectivo' (Will pay to the bearer, in cash) / 'Cinco Pesos' (Five Pesos) / 'Conforme al Decreto Militar de fecha 10 de Febrero de 1914' (In accordance with Military Decree dated February 10, 1914) / 'Serie C' (Series C) / 'Chihuahua, Mexico' (location) / 'Tesorero General' (General Treasurer) / 'Gobernador' (Governor) / 'Interventor' (Auditor/Inspector) / Serial number: 1626221. BACK: 'Cinco Pesos' (Five Pesos) / 'Sombrero General del Estado Chihuahua' (General Seal of the State of Chihuahua).

Intaglio printing (engraved/recess printing) executed throughout, evidenced by the fine line work, detailed portrait medallions, complex architectural rendering, and intricate border patterns visible in both the visual analysis and print quality. The precision of the decorative scrollwork and security details indicates professional bank note printing, likely produced by an established security printer serving Mexican regional authorities. The use of multi-color intaglio (separate pink and red plates for obverse and reverse) demonstrates sophisticated production capability for the period.

This specimen is identified as Pick P-S531f, representing Series C of the 5 pesos 1914 emission. The serial number 1626221 and 'Serie C' designation are clearly visible on the obverse. Varieties within this issue likely exist based on serial number ranges, signature varieties (Tesorero General, Gobernador, Interventor positions), and potentially different printings or plate states, though specific variety catalogs for Chihuahuan emergency currency remain limited. The AU grade with visible circulation wear suggests this is a used example from active circulation rather than a pristine, uncirculated specimen.