The Venezuela 5 Bolívares commemorative banknote, issued in 1966

The Venezuela 5 Bolívares banknote, issued in 1966 by the Banco Central de Venezuela, commemorates the 400th anniversary of the founding of Caracas (1567-1967). Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, was established by the Spanish conquistador Diego de Losada in 1567, and this note was specially designed to honor the city’s rich history.

This commemorative issue stands out from regular Bolívares notes due to its historical illustrations and unique artistic elements. The front (obverse) of the note features a portrait of Simón Bolívar, Venezuela’s liberator, along with an artistic depiction of the founding of Caracas. The reverse (back) side displays an early city plan of Caracas, drawn in 1578 by order of Governor Juan de Pimentel, showcasing the city’s first structured layout.

As a low-denomination note, it was originally used for daily transactions, but its historical and artistic significance has made it a sought-after collector’s item.

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Design Elements

Obverse (Front Side)

The front of the banknote prominently features two key historical elements:

1. Simón Bolívar’s Portrait

   • Bolívar is depicted in military uniform, symbolizing his role in Venezuela’s fight for independence.
   • His portrait is enclosed within an oval frame on the right side.
   • Below the portrait, the inscription reads: “Bolívar Libertador” (Bolívar the Liberator).

2. The Founding of Caracas (1567)

   • The central scene portrays Diego de Losada and Spanish conquistadors establishing Caracas.
   • Soldiers, banners, and a landscape illustrate the historic moment of the city’s founding.
   • The text “CUATRICENTENARIO DE LA FUNDACIÓN DE CARACAS 1567-1967” is displayed in a special commemorative box.

Additional Design Features:

• The denomination “5” is printed in all four corners.
• The phrase “CINCO BOLÍVARES” (Five Bolívares) is clearly printed at the bottom.
• The serial number appears twice, once in red ink at the top left and once at the top right.
• The issuing date “Mayo 10, 1966” is printed in the lower center.
• The Banco Central de Venezuela’s signature and seal authenticate the note.

Reverse (Back Side)

The reverse side presents a historical map of Caracas, based on a plan commissioned by Governor Juan de Pimentel in 1578. This early depiction of Santiago de León de Caracas outlines the city’s original structure, showing:

• The grid-based layout of the city.
• Rivers, natural features, and early road networks.
• A coat of arms representing Caracas on the left side.

Other Elements:

• The denomination “5” is placed in all four corners.
• The words “BANCO CENTRAL DE VENEZUELA” appear at the top.
• The text “CINCO BOLÍVARES” is printed at the bottom.
• A decorative pattern frames the map, enhancing its artistic appeal.

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Color Scheme and Dimensions

• Primary Colors:
  • Obverse (Front): The note features a green-dominated palette, with shades of black and gray highlighting the portrait and historical scene.
  • Reverse (Back): Printed in monochrome blue, giving the historical map an elegant appearance.
• Dimensions:
  • The banknote measures 156 mm in length and 69 mm in width, making it consistent with other mid-20th-century Venezuelan currency.

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Security Features

Despite being an older banknote, this issue includes several security features:

1. Watermark

   • A hidden watermark of Simón Bolívar is embedded into the paper and can be seen when held against light.

2. Intaglio Printing (Raised Ink)

   • Bolívar’s portrait and the denomination numerals have raised ink, making them detectable by touch.

3. Fine Line Patterns and Geometric Designs

   • The note contains intricate fine-line patterns that are difficult to reproduce.

4. Serial Number Security

   • The serial numbers are printed in red ink, adding an additional layer of authentication.

5. Latent Image and Microprinting

   • Some areas contain microtext, which can only be seen under magnification.

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Circulation and Collectibility

• Was this note widely circulated?
  Yes, the 5 Bolívares note was a low-denomination currency, meaning it was commonly used in everyday transactions. However, due to its commemorative nature, many individuals and collectors preserved it.

• Is this banknote rare?
  Circulated copies are relatively common, but uncirculated (UNC) or mint-condition notes are considered rare. Well-preserved notes are more difficult to find, making them valuable to collectors.

• Collector’s Interest:

  • The note appeals to collectors who specialize in:
    • Venezuelan historical currency.
    • Commemorative issues.
    • Latin American numismatics.

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Predicting Future Value

Current Market Value

The value of this banknote depends heavily on its condition:

• Circulated (Used) Condition: $5 – $15 USD.
• Uncirculated (UNC) Condition: $25 – $50 USD.
• Certified Gem UNC (Perfect Condition): $75 – $100+ USD.

Factors Affecting Future Value

• Increasing Rarity: Since many notes were used in circulation, finding an uncirculated one is becoming more difficult.
• Historical Significance: The 400th anniversary of Caracas is an important milestone, making this note more desirable.
• Demand for Venezuelan Collectibles: As Venezuela undergoes rapid economic changes, older banknotes are gaining interest among international collectors.

Investment Potential

• This note is expected to increase in value over time, especially in mint condition.
• Those who own low-serial-number notes or error prints could see even higher valuations.

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The Venezuela 5 Bolívares 1966 “400th Anniversary of Caracas” Commemorative Issue is a historically rich and visually impressive banknote. With its portrait of Simón Bolívar, depiction of Caracas’ founding, and early city map, this note is a valuable piece of Venezuelan heritage.

• For collectors, this note is a worthwhile addition, especially in uncirculated condition.
• For investors, its historical relevance and increasing scarcity make it a potentially appreciating asset.
• For history enthusiasts, it serves as a beautiful representation of Venezuela’s colonial past and independence movement.

As time passes, well-preserved versions of this note will become increasingly valuable, making it a great long-term collectible.