10 soles 1963

Common. Market data from realbanknotes.com shows consistent eBay auction activity with VF-graded examples averaging $2.45–$2.70 in recent years, while UNC specimens typically sell for $1.25–$4.25. The note's relatively modest catalog values ($1.50 for VF, $4.00 for UNC as of 2019) and high transaction frequency indicate substantial surviving populations. The print run for this series across multiple issue dates (1962–1968) was large enough to maintain common status in all circulated grades.

This note was issued during a period of relative stability in Peru's monetary system, authorized under Law No. 13358 and dated September 20, 1963. The imagery reflects Peru's national identity through the allegorical Liberty figure with sun symbolism (connecting to Incan solar traditions) and the detailed coat of arms featuring characteristic Peruvian heraldic elements including a llama and agricultural products, representing the nation's indigenous heritage and economic foundations during this Cold War-era period.

The obverse presents Liberty (Libertad) as a classical female allegorical figure in the central vignette, crowned with a radiant sun halo emanating sun rays—a motif connecting to pre-Columbian Incan solar worship. She is depicted holding a vertical staff or spear symbolizing authority and sovereignty, attended by two cherubs (putti) positioned alongside her. Large ornate cartouches containing the numeral '10' occupy all four corners. The design is framed by intricate geometric borders with decorative rosette patterns and fine filigree work. The reverse features Peru's national coat of arms within a circular medallion at center, displaying a shield with heraldic divisions containing a llama (representing fauna), various agricultural products (wheat, corn, or other crops representing Peru's wealth), and other traditional elements. Large denomination numerals '10' appear in decorative cartouches on both left and right sides. Both sides employ extensive guilloche patterning and ornamental borders typical of high-security currency design.

FRONT SIDE: 'BANCO CENTRAL DE RESERVA DEL PERU' (Central Reserve Bank of Peru) / 'DIEZ SOLES DE ORO' (Ten Soles of Gold) / 'DE ACUERDO CON LA LEY No 13358' (In Accordance with Law No. 13358) / 'LIMA. 20 de SETIEMBRE de 1963' (Lima. September 20, 1963) / 'SERIE 198' (Series 198) / Serial number: 456228 / Official titles: 'PRESIDENTE' (President), 'DIRECTOR' (Director), 'GERENTE GENERAL' (General Manager). REVERSE SIDE: 'BANCO CENTRAL DE RESERVA DEL PERU' (Central Reserve Bank of Peru) / 'DIEZ SOLES DE ORO' (Ten Soles of Gold) / 'THOMAS DE LA RUE & CO LTD' (Thomas de la Rue & Co Ltd, printer).

Intaglio engraving (line engraving and recess printing) executed by Thomas de la Rue & Co Ltd, London, as evidenced by the fine, crisp line work visible throughout both sides. The complex geometric guilloche patterns, detailed allegorical vignettes, and multi-layered ornamental designs characteristic of security currency are rendered in this traditional steel-plate engraving method, which was Thomas de la Rue's signature technique during this period.

This specific note is dated 20.9.1963 (September 20, 1963) and bears Series 198 designation with serial number 456228. The Pick catalog notes P-84a as a variant, though the visual analysis does not reveal overprints or signature variations distinguishing this example as a rare variety. The note matches the standard 1962–1968 issuance documented across multiple dates (20.9.1963, 20.5.1966, 25.5.1967, 23.2.1968), with consistent orange-red on multicolor underprint design. No series prefixes or special overprints are evident that would elevate this to a scarce variety status.