The Argentina 100 Pesos was issued to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Eva Perón’s death
The Argentina 100 Pesos banknote (2012) was issued to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Eva Perón’s death. This note is part of the “Tenemos Patria” (We Have a Homeland) series, which aimed to celebrate Argentina’s national identity and historical figures.
Eva Perón, also known as Evita, was the First Lady of Argentina from 1946 to 1952, renowned for her advocacy for women’s rights, social welfare, and labor movements. She remains an iconic and beloved figure in Argentine history. This banknote was the first in Argentina to feature a woman on the obverse and was a departure from traditional banknote designs, incorporating a vertical orientation and modern security features.
The obverse (front) of the note prominently displays a portrait of Eva Perón, while the reverse (back) features floral and ornamental designs symbolizing her legacy and impact. The note’s aesthetic and security features make it unique, and it remains a highly collectible item.
Design and Aesthetic Details
Obverse (Front)
The front side of the 100 Pesos banknote is dedicated to Eva Perón’s legacy, featuring:
- A detailed portrait of Eva Perón, based on a relief sculpture by Argentine artist Juan Carlos Pallarols. The left-facing portrait showcases Evita’s elegance and strength.
- The words “Banco Central de la República Argentina” (Central Bank of the Argentine Republic) printed at the top.
- The denomination “100” is printed vertically on the left side and in words as “Cien Pesos” (One Hundred Pesos) at the bottom.
- The phrase “Eva Perón” is inscribed in elegant cursive near her shoulder.
- A decorative floral pattern, inspired by Argentine indigenous motifs, surrounds the portrait.
- The “Tenemos Patria” (We Have a Homeland) series label is subtly incorporated.
The vertical design is innovative, making it distinct from previous Argentine banknotes. This layout reinforces Evita’s symbolic elevation in Argentina’s historical narrative.
Reverse (Back)
The back side of the note continues the elegant theme with intricate floral and ornamental details:
- A floral composition featuring the ceibo flower, Argentina’s national flower, which represents beauty, resilience, and national identity.
- The denomination “100 Pesos” is printed in large numerals.
- Traditional geometric and floral designs, reflecting Argentina’s cultural heritage, are interwoven throughout the note.
- The color transitions smoothly from purple to pink and light violet tones, complementing the floral artwork.
The lack of a traditional historical building or scene on the reverse is a deliberate choice, emphasizing Eva Perón’s personal and social legacy rather than state institutions.
Color Scheme
The color scheme of this 100 Pesos banknote is predominantly purple, pink, and violet, symbolizing:
- Royalty and reverence, reflecting Evita’s role as a beloved leader.
- Feminine strength and elegance, aligning with her image as an advocate for women’s rights.
- A modern, artistic approach, differing from conventional banknote designs.
This combination makes the note aesthetically appealing and symbolically rich.
Dimensions
The Argentina 100 Pesos (2012) Eva Perón banknote has the following dimensions:
- Width: 155 mm
- Length: 65 mm
These dimensions are consistent with other Argentine banknotes, ensuring easy handling and differentiation from lower denominations.
Security Features
The 100 Pesos (2012) Eva Perón banknote incorporates advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting, including:
- Watermark: A transparent watermark of Eva Perón’s face, visible when held up to light.
- Security Thread: A vertical security thread embedded in the paper, displaying “100 BCRA” under light.
- Microprinting: Tiny, intricate inscriptions along the note’s borders, readable only under magnification.
- Raised Ink (Intaglio Printing): The portrait of Eva Perón and the denomination have textured ink, allowing easy tactile recognition.
- Color-Shifting Ink: Certain printed elements change color when tilted.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Features: Special fluorescent ink becomes visible under UV light, highlighting security markings.
- Iridescent Strip: A shimmering strip running across the note, adding an extra layer of authentication.
These security features make the banknote durable and difficult to counterfeit.
Circulation and Collectibility
Circulation
- The 100 Pesos (2012) Eva Perón banknote was introduced as legal tender and used in everyday transactions.
- It coexisted with other 100 Pesos banknotes featuring historical male figures.
- Despite its commemorative nature, it remained widely accepted in circulation.
Collectibility
Due to its unique design and historical significance, the 100 Pesos (2012) Eva Perón banknote is highly sought after by collectors.
- Rarity: Uncirculated (UNC) versions are increasingly valuable.
- Historical Importance: As the first Argentine banknote featuring a woman, it holds great symbolic and cultural value.
- Market Price: Collectors prize pristine (UNC) versions at a higher premium, while circulated notes retain moderate value.
Many collectors consider it a milestone in Argentine currency history, reflecting national pride and social progress.