1935 – Spain 5 Pesetas Banknote - XF – Allegorical Female Bust “Certificado de Plata” Issue

1935 – Spain 5 Pesetas Banknote - XF – Allegorical Female Bust “Certificado de Plata” Issue
CA$40.00

This 1935 Spanish 5 Pesetas banknote (“Cinco Pesetas – Certificado de Plata”) is a beautiful pre–Civil War issue from the Banco de España, printed by Bradbury, Wilkinson & Co. Ltd., England. The obverse features a classical allegorical female figure wearing a laurel wreath, symbolizing liberty and wisdom, engraved in exquisite multi-tone detail. Surrounding guilloché patterns and precise geometric linework give the note its distinctive 1930s elegance.

The reverse, printed in rich violet and lilac tones, showcases a bold central denomination framed by ornate scrollwork and intricate symmetry — a hallmark of British engraving craftsmanship of the period. The legend “Banco de España” crowns the design, affirming its issuance under Spain’s silver-backed (“Certificado de Plata”) standard prior to the disruptions of the Spanish Civil War.

Issued during the Second Spanish Republic (1931–1939), this note represents a key transitional era in Spain’s monetary history, combining artistic design and political significance. Its detailed engraving, early serial format, and foreign printing origin make it a prized example for collectors of European interwar currency.

Details:

  • Country: Spain

  • Denomination: 5 Pesetas

  • Date Issued: 1935

  • Issuer: Banco de España

  • Printer: Bradbury, Wilkinson & Co. Ltd. (England)

  • Front Design: Allegorical female bust with laurel wreath (symbol of liberty)

  • Back Design: Ornate purple-violet guilloché framing central “5 Pesetas” inscription

  • Text: “Certificado de Plata – De Curso Legal”

  • Serial Number: D 4,555,599

  • Signatures: Gobernador and Interventor of the Banco de España

  • Watermark: Female allegorical head

  • Dimensions: Approx. 108 × 65 mm