Banknotes of Guatemala

Guatemala placed the bird that gives its name to its currency on its banknotes. The quetzal is simultaneously the national bird, the monetary unit, and a symbol of freedom: in Mayan tradition, it does not survive in captivity, hence the association.

Tikal and the Mayan world

The pyramids of Tikal appear on several denominations, alongside scenes of coffee harvesting, Lake Atitlán, and portraits of national heroes like Justo Rufino Barrios. It is a very visual field of numismatics, the kind that catches the eye before you even look at the catalog.

Early issues

The quetzales printed by the American Bank Note Company and Waterlow & Sons in the first decades of the 20th century have exceptional engraving quality. They remain relatively affordable for what they are.

What you will find here

Quetzales with Pick references and genuine condition. To round out Central America, they pair well with Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.

Shipping

Protected and tracked from Spain.

Discover more banknotes from the region in Banknotes of America.