5 soles 1958

Common. This is a regular issue from Peru's standard circulation series with substantial print runs. eBay market data provided shows examples in VF condition selling for $2.50, while UNC notes only reach $35. These low prices and the consistent availability of the note across multiple sales indicate broad circulation and common status. The note is not a short-lived issue, special edition, or recall note. Pick P-81 represents standard currency production by the Banco Central de Reserva del Perú.

This 1958 5 Soles note reflects Peru's post-war monetary stabilization period under the Banco Central de Reserva del Perú, which had been established in 1922. The note's design emphasizes national identity through classical allegorical imagery (Liberty) and Peru's rich natural and cultural heritage depicted in the coat of arms—including agricultural products (wheat, grapes), fauna (llama), and architectural monuments (fortress). The 'Soles de Oro' (Gold Soles) denomination underscores the gold-standard backing that Peru maintained during this era of relatively stable currency management.

The obverse features a classical allegorical composition centered on Liberty, depicted as a standing female figure in classical dress holding a staff or spear, attended by a cherub or putto figure—a common Neo-classical motif in 19th and early 20th century currency design. The reverse displays Peru's national coat of arms in a circular heraldic frame, incorporating symbols of the nation's wealth and identity: an alpaca or llama (representing Andean fauna), agricultural abundance (wheat sheaves and grape clusters), a tree (symbolizing natural resources), and an architectural element (possibly representing the fortress of Cusco or colonial heritage). All four corners of both sides feature ornate denomination numerals '5' within elaborate decorative frames. The design employs extensive ornamental scrollwork, fine line cross-hatching, and intricate border elements consistent with security printing standards of the era.

FRONT SIDE: 'BANCO CENTRAL DE RESERVA DEL PERÚ' (Central Reserve Bank of Peru); 'PAGARÁ AL PORTADOR' (Payable to Bearer); 'CINCO SOLES DE ORO' (Five Soles of Gold); 'DE ACUERDO CON LA LEY Nº 10355' (In Accordance with Law No. 10355); 'SERIE N7' (Series N7); Serial number '557268'; '21 de AGOSTO de 1958' (August 21, 1958); 'LIMA' (Lima); Three signature lines labeled 'DIRECTOR', 'PRESIDENTE', and 'GERENTE GENERAL' (Director, President, and General Manager); 'WATERLOW & SONS LIMITED, LONDRES' (Waterlow & Sons Limited, London). BACK SIDE: 'BANCO CENTRAL DE RESERVA DEL PERÚ' (Central Reserve Bank of Peru); 'CINCO SOLES DE ORO' (Five Soles of Gold); 'WATERLOW & SONS LIMITED LONDRES' (Waterlow & Sons Limited London).

Intaglio engraving and letterpress, a standard method for banknotes of this period. The note was printed by Waterlow & Sons Limited of London, one of the world's premier security printers. The visible characteristics—the fine line work, deep cross-hatching, ornate scrollwork, and complex heraldic imagery—are hallmarks of intaglio engraving. The printer's name on both sides confirms the London origin, which was typical for many South American central banks during the 1950s.

Series N7 is noted on this example. The visual analysis identifies serial number 557268 in red ink. Varieties of this Pick number (P-81) may exist based on series designations and signature combinations, though the catalog data suggests comparison with P-70, P-76, and P-83 for related varieties. Without access to comprehensive variety catalogs for Peruvian notes, specific variety identification beyond the Series N7 designation is not possible from the present example. The August 21, 1958 date appears to be the official issue date for this series.