1958 – Chile 50 Pesos Banknote - UNC – Banco Central de Chile “Aníbal Pinto” Issue
This 1958 Chile 50 Pesos banknote, issued by the Banco Central de Chile, is an elegant mid-20th-century design representing Chile’s classical monetary period. The front features a finely engraved portrait of Aníbal Pinto Garmendia (1825–1884), the 9th President of Chile, who led the nation during the War of the Pacific. The intricate line engraving and detailed guilloché borders, printed in green and cream tones, reflect the precision and artistry of Latin American banknote design in the 1950s.
The obverse includes the denomination “50 CINCUENTA PESOS” at the center, bilingual references to convertibility (“CONVERTIBLES EN ORO CONFORME A LA LEY”), and dual signatures of bank officials. The denomination numerals “50” are boldly set in ornate corners, framed by floral scrollwork and security patterns.
The reverse showcases the Banco Central de Chile coat of arms — a condor with outstretched wings above a shield — surrounded by radiating geometric guilloché in gold and olive green. To the right, the note carries the conversion mark “5 CÉNTESIMOS DE ESCUDO,” indicating its later adaptation to the 1960s Escudo reform.
This note is part of Chile’s transitional currency series, illustrating the end of the peso-gold standard era before the introduction of the escudo in 1960. Collectors prize this issue for its engraving quality, historical resonance, and well-preserved color balance.
Details:
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Country: Chile
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Denomination: 50 Pesos (Cinco Cóndores)
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Date Issued: 1958
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Issuer: Banco Central de Chile
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Front Design: Portrait of President Aníbal Pinto, denomination in corners, intricate guilloché border
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Back Design: Coat of arms of Chile, radiating sunburst pattern, “5 CÉNTESIMOS DE ESCUDO” inscription
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Color Scheme: Olive green and tan with red overprint
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Language: Spanish
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Serial Number: C 21-26 743266
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Dimensions: Approx. 150 × 75 mm
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Printer: Likely Casa de Moneda de Chile or American Bank Note Co. (typical of this period)