50 centavos 1915

Uncommon. This specific Pick number represents a localized emergency issue with limited geographic circulation (Durango state only) and a production span of only several months during the revolutionary period. The Series F designation with serial number 49859 indicates this was part of a moderate-sized printing run, but survival rates for fractional revolutionary currency are generally low due to heavy circulation and subsequent destruction. Notes in VF condition with well-preserved color and minimal damage command moderate collector interest, making this grade notably more desirable than heavily circulated examples.

This note was issued during the Mexican Revolution under the authority of a December 12, 1913 decree, reflecting the financial chaos and currency shortages of the era. The Durango state government resort to issuing fractional currency when traditional currency supplies were disrupted by civil conflict. The inscription referencing 'lack of river' and the interim governance structure visible in the signatures underscore the provisional nature of Durango's administration during this tumultuous period.

The obverse features a classical rectangular border composed of repeating scalloped ornamental patterns in brown/sepia tones with black ink typography. The central area displays prominent denomination and issuer information with space allocated for official stamps and signature lines representing the Governor and interim financial officers. The reverse showcases an Art Nouveau design aesthetic with elaborate geometric and floral patterns in teal-green ink surrounding a central circular medallion containing a landscape vignette of mountains and vegetation. Classical architectural elements frame the corners, and the denomination '50 Centavos' appears symmetrically on both left and right sides. No portraits appear on either side; the decorative program emphasizes institutional authority through geometric complexity rather than personal imagery.

FRONT: 'El Estado de Durango' (The State of Durango); 'Pagará al Portador' (Will Pay to the Bearer); 'La cantidad de' (The amount of); 'Serie F' (Series F); '50 Centavos' (50 centavos); 'No. 49859' (Number 49859); 'Durango, Sep. de 1915' (Durango, September 1915); 'Conforme al Decreto de 12 de Diciembre de 1913' (In accordance with the decree of December 12, 1913); 'Por falta de rio, el que mayor' (Due to lack of [currency], the major [authority]); 'El Dr. Cual de Rentas. Int°' (The Doctor in charge of Income, Interim); 'Gobernador' (Governor). BACK: '50 Centavos' (50 centavos) - appears twice on left and right sides.

This note was produced using traditional intaglio engraving with separate plates for obverse (brown/sepia) and reverse (teal-green) impressions, typical of Mexican state currency production during the 1910s. The fine line work visible in both the geometric patterns and ornamental borders indicates skilled engraving, with likely production by a domestic Mexican security printer or regional printing facility capable of color separation work. The quality of the engraving and registration suggests professional production standards despite the emergency circumstances of issuance.

This example is identified as Series F, Number 49859, issued September 1915. Durango's 50 centavo emissions exist in multiple series (documented series include A through F and possibly beyond), with variations in serial number ranges and signature combinations representing different administrative periods. This particular note exhibits the interim governance structure characteristic of mid-1915 issues, with signature lines for both regular and interim financial officials, distinguishing it from earlier 1913-1914 emissions or later 1915 issues with different administrative configurations. The specific series designation and serial number provide precise cataloging within the broader Durango 50 centavo emissions.