1971 – Chile 5,000 Escudos Banknote - UNC – Banco Central de Chile “José Miguel Carrera & Casa de los Carrera” Issue

1971 – Chile 5,000 Escudos Banknote - UNC – Banco Central de Chile “José Miguel Carrera & Casa de los Carrera” Issue
CA$20.00

This 1971 Chile 5,000 Escudos banknote, issued by the Banco Central de Chile, honors José Miguel Carrera (1785–1821), one of the most influential leaders of Chile’s struggle for independence. The obverse features a detailed portrait of Carrera in military dress uniform, framed by laurel branches symbolizing victory and patriotism. Printed in elegant shades of olive green, brown, and soft orange, the note combines precision engraving and classic Chilean design motifs that reflect the pride of a newly modernizing nation.

At the bottom of the obverse is Carrera’s famous declaration:
“Ha llegado la hora de la independencia americana, nadie puede evitarla.”
(“The hour of American independence has arrived; no one can prevent it.”)
This powerful statement, coupled with the fine artistry of Casa de Moneda de Chile, makes the note a lasting tribute to national unity and liberation.

The reverse side depicts the Casa de los Carrera, the family home of José Miguel Carrera, now a historic monument in Santiago. The tranquil courtyard, with its stone fountain and traditional colonial architecture, contrasts beautifully with the turmoil of the independence struggle Carrera helped lead. The national coat of arms appears to the left, bearing Chile’s enduring motto, “Por la Razón o la Fuerza” (“By Reason or by Force”).

A poetic inscription at the bottom, excerpted from Pablo Neruda’s Canto General, adds a layer of cultural depth to the design:
“Dijiste libertad antes que nadie, cuando el susurro iba de piedra en piedra, escondido en los patios, humillado.”
(“You spoke of freedom before anyone else, when whispers passed from stone to stone, hidden in courtyards, humiliated.”)

This banknote stands as a fusion of art, poetry, and patriotism, celebrating Chile’s identity and revolutionary spirit during a pivotal era.

Details:

  • Country: Chile

  • Denomination: 5,000 Escudos

  • Date Issued: 1971

  • Issuer: Banco Central de Chile

  • Front Design: Portrait of José Miguel Carrera with laurel wreath and denomination “CINCO MIL ESCUDOS”

  • Back Design: Casa de los Carrera with courtyard fountain and national coat of arms

  • Color Scheme: Olive green, brown, and tan

  • Printer: Casa de Moneda de Chile

  • Serial Number: B 10 – 0197085

  • Dimensions: Approx. 155 × 75 mm

  • Language: Spanish

  • Text on Note: “Ha llegado la hora de la independencia americana, nadie puede evitarla.” – Carrera