1962 – Chile ½ Escudo Banknote - XF – Banco Central de Chile “Bernardo O’Higgins” Issue

1962 – Chile ½ Escudo Banknote - XF – Banco Central de Chile “Bernardo O’Higgins” Issue
CA$36.00

This 1962 Chile ½ Escudo (Cincuenta Centesimos de Escudo) banknote, issued by the Banco Central de Chile, is an early example of Chile’s post-reform currency following the nation’s transition from the peso to the escudo in 1960. The design honors Bernardo O’Higgins, the revered founding father and liberator of Chile, who led the nation to independence from Spanish colonial rule.

The obverse presents a finely detailed portrait of Bernardo O’Higgins (1778–1842), rendered in blue-gray ink and surrounded by an ornate guilloché pattern. O’Higgins is depicted in formal military attire, symbolizing his leadership as Supreme Director during Chile’s formative years. The upper border displays the inscription “BANCO CENTRAL DE CHILE”, while the denomination “MEDIO ESCUDO” and value E°0.50 appear prominently in the center and corners. The signatures of the President and Gerente General of the Banco Central de Chile are positioned below the portrait. Intricate scrollwork and security line patterns throughout the border enhance both the artistic and anti-counterfeiting appeal of the note.

The reverse repeats the historical scene “Llegada de Almagro a Chile” (Arrival of Almagro to Chile)—depicting Spanish conquistador Diego de Almagro’s expedition into Chilean territory in the 1530s. Printed in blue ink, the vignette showcases Almagro on horseback surrounded by explorers and indigenous figures, against a backdrop of Chile’s rugged mountains. The border, inscribed “Medio Escudo”, is detailed with indigenous-inspired geometric motifs and fine scroll engravings.

Printed by the Casa de Moneda de Chile, this note belongs to Chile’s early Escudo series, which circulated from 1960 to 1975 before the peso was reintroduced. It reflects both national pride and artistic excellence, making it a valuable collectible for South American currency enthusiasts and world banknote collectors alike.

Details:

  • Country: Chile

  • Denomination: ½ Escudo (Cincuenta Centesimos de Escudo)

  • Date Issued: 1962

  • Issuer: Banco Central de Chile

  • Printer: Casa de Moneda de Chile

  • Front Design: Portrait of Bernardo O’Higgins, national hero and first leader of independent Chile

  • Back Design: “Llegada de Almagro a Chile” (Arrival of Almagro to Chile) colonial exploration scene

  • Color Scheme: Blue-gray and tan

  • Serial Number: E° 050 480466

  • Series: C3

  • Dimensions: Approx. 155 × 75 mm

  • Material: Banknote paper

  • Language: Spanish