The Argentina 1 Peso commemorative banknote (1952)

The Argentina 1 Peso banknote (1952) was issued as a commemorative edition marking the Declaration of Economic Independence, a key event in Argentina’s economic history. This event, proclaimed in 1947 under President Juan Domingo Perón, symbolized Argentina’s break from economic dependence on foreign powers and reinforced Perón’s vision of economic self-sufficiency.

This banknote reflects Argentina’s political and economic ideology of the time, integrating classical and nationalistic elements in its design. The obverse (front) features an allegorical depiction of Justice, symbolizing fair governance and national sovereignty, while the reverse (back) showcases the House of the Currency (Casa de Moneda de la Nación), reinforcing the theme of economic self-reliance.

With its detailed engravings, historical importance, and well-executed security features, this banknote remains a highly collectible piece of Argentina’s numismatic history.

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Design and Aesthetic Details

Obverse (Front)

The front side of the 1 Peso (1952) banknote prominently features:

• A central engraving of Lady Justice (La Justicia), depicted holding a set of scales in her left hand and a sword in her right. This symbolizes fairness, truth, and law, aligning with the ideals of economic justice.
• The inscription “El Banco Central de la República Argentina”, indicating the issuing authority.
• The phrase “Pagará al portador a la vista UN PESO moneda nacional” (Will pay the bearer on sight ONE PESO national currency).
• The denomination “1” in large numerals, placed in the corners.
• The serial number, printed in both black and red ink, adding a security element.
• A decorative border with intricate floral motifs, framing the portrait and inscriptions.
• Open books, torches, and laurel leaves, surrounding the central image, representing knowledge, enlightenment, and victory.
• A blank circular watermark area on the right side, a standard anti-counterfeiting measure.

The classical and neoclassical design elements reflect Argentina’s aspirations for justice, stability, and self-governance in its economic policies.

Reverse (Back)

The back side of the 1 Peso (1952) banknote highlights national economic sovereignty with:

• A detailed illustration of the Casa de Moneda de la Nación (National Mint House), Argentina’s official institution for currency production, symbolizing economic independence and self-sufficiency.
• The inscription “República Argentina” at the top, with the years “1816” and “1947”, marking:
  • 1816 – The Declaration of Independence from Spain.
  • 1947 – The Declaration of Economic Independence under President Juan Domingo Perón.
• The denomination “1 Peso” prominently displayed on the right.
• A framing wreath with decorative elements, such as:
  • Agricultural symbols, including wheat and farming tools, representing Argentina’s agrarian economy.
  • Industrial imagery, including machinery, signifying Argentina’s push towards industrialization.
  • A national emblem with the Phrygian cap, symbolizing liberty and sovereignty.

The combination of historical, political, and economic symbols on this side reinforces Argentina’s economic self-determination.

Color Scheme

The color scheme of the banknote is primarily:

• Shades of brown and violet, giving the note a formal and dignified appearance.
• Dark purple and gray hues, used for detailed engravings.
• Subtle light beige backgrounds, ensuring visibility of intricate designs.

This refined and classic color palette aligns with the serious and nationalistic theme of the banknote.

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Dimensions

The Argentina 1 Peso (1952) Declaration of Economic Independence banknote has the following dimensions:

• Width: 155 mm
• Length: 75 mm

These dimensions are standard for mid-20th century Argentine banknotes, ensuring easy recognition and handling.

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Security Features

The 1 Peso (1952) banknote incorporates several security features to deter counterfeiting:

1. Watermark: A blank circular area on the right side houses an invisible watermark, visible when held up to light.
2. Intaglio Printing: Raised ink on the portraits, text, and border designs allows tactile authentication.
3. Microprinting: Fine detailed lines and engravings in the decorative borders, making counterfeiting difficult.
4. Security Thread: A thin embedded security thread, running vertically through the paper, visible under magnification.
5. Serial Numbers: Printed in dual colors (black and red ink), preventing alterations.
6. UV Features: Some elements, particularly inked sections, react under ultraviolet (UV) light.

These security features ensured the authenticity of the note during circulation.

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Circulation and Collectibility

Circulation

• The 1 Peso (1952) Declaration of Economic Independence banknote was introduced as legal tender and was widely used in daily transactions.
• It coexisted with other 1 Peso banknotes, but its commemorative nature made it unique within the currency system.
• Over time, inflation and currency reforms led to its eventual withdrawal from circulation.

Collectibility

The 1952 1 Peso “Declaration of Economic Independence” banknote is highly sought after by collectors due to its:

• Historical significance – Marking Argentina’s economic self-determination under Perón.
• Unique design – Featuring Justice and the National Mint House, symbolic of economic strength.
• Rarity – While some circulated notes remain, uncirculated (UNC) specimens are increasingly valuable.
• Market Value – Collectors prize well-preserved notes, particularly uncirculated (UNC) and extremely fine (XF) conditions.

This note holds a special place in Argentine numismatics, serving as a political and economic artifact.