Collection: Banknotes of Peru. The Hyperinflation of the Inti: Testimony of an Era
Explore Peruvian Notaphily: A Tribute to Inca and Modern Heritage
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Peruvian banknotes , where each bill is a canvas reflecting Peru's rich Inca heritage, struggle for independence, and vibrant biodiversity. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our carefully curated collection of Peruvian banknotes , perfect for both seasoned collectors and newcomers seeking to connect with the cultural and monetary legacy of this iconic South American nation. Vintage Peruvian banknotes are more than just paper money; they are relics that chronicle the transition from the golden sol to the modern sol in 1985—a name inspired by the colonial currency and the Inca sun god, a symbol of wealth and power.
The Monetary Evolution of Peru: From the Golden Sol to the Sol
Before 1985, Peru used several currencies, including the gold sol (1863–1985) and the Peruvian pound in the 19th century, issued by colonial mints and private banks such as the Banco de la Compañía de Crédito Hipotecario. The 1863 Law established the gold sol as the national currency, with banknotes issued by the Bank of Issue from 1879, featuring designs with historical figures such as Simón Bolívar and Inca motifs. In 1985, due to inflation, the gold sol was replaced by the inti , and in 1991, the nuevo sol (now simply sol ) was introduced by Law No. 25295. The Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP) , founded in 1922, assumed exclusive control of currency issuance, launching banknotes with designs celebrating Peruvian archaeology and national heroes.
Rare Banknotes: Jewels of Peruvian Notaphily
Our collection includes rare Peruvian banknotes , such as the 1879-1900 issues in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 100 gold soles, featuring engravings of José de San Martín, liberator of Peru, and motifs of Machu Picchu. The 1932 series, the first issued by the Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP), are notable for their designs featuring Saint Rose of Lima (on the 10-sol note) and the Inca ruler Túpac Amaru II (on the 50-sol note ). Commemorative issues, such as the 2011 10-sol note marking the centenary of the discovery of Machu Picchu, depict the Inca citadel and incorporate advanced security features, such as metallic threads and optically variable inks.
For lovers of South American banknotes , we offer unique pieces such as the 200 soles banknote from 2016, featuring Chabuca Granda, an icon of Peruvian Creole music, and views of the Colca Valley, as well as the 500 soles banknote from 1987, featuring archaeologist Julio C. Tello and motifs from Chavín de Huántar. These banknotes incorporate inclusive features, such as Braille for the visually impaired, introduced in 2010. The rarity of issues like the 1 sol de oro banknote from 1879 or the 1968 series, with limited print runs due to economic crises, makes them coveted pieces at international auctions, valued for their connection to Inca culture and Peruvian independence.
Preservation and Authenticity: Our Promise
Conservation is a key pillar in our selection of Peruvian banknotes . Each piece is evaluated according to international standards such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), guaranteeing the clarity of details like watermarks with Inca motifs, fluorescent fibers, and signatures of BCRP presidents. We recommend that collectors of rare banknotes verify authenticity under UV light, where elements such as serial numbers and archaeological motifs glow in shades of green or blue, in accordance with BCRP standards. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , each banknote undergoes a rigorous verification process to guarantee its authenticity , preventing common counterfeits such as defective printing or missing security threads, which are frequent in replicas of 19th-century banknotes or those from monetary transitions.
Why Collect Peruvian Banknotes
From the 5-sol note of 1932, featuring Saint Rose of Lima and views of Lima's Plaza de Armas, to the 100-sol note of 2016, with Jorge Basadre and the Chan Chan archaeological site, this collection celebrates Peruvian diversity: its Inca legacy, its struggle for independence, and its rich cultural heritage. Each note reflects milestones such as the founding of the Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP) in 1922 or the reintroduction of the sol in 1991. For new buyers , it's an opportunity to invest in pieces with cultural value; for experienced collectors , it's a chance to complete series with rare or commemorative denominations that enrich any collection.
Trust Iberoamericana Banknotes
At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we guarantee the authenticity of every banknote with detailed certificates and expertise in Ibero-American numismatics. We offer pieces in optimal condition to enhance your collecting legacy and provide secure and discreet international shipping to any destination. Embark on a journey through Peruvian notaphily and own a piece of history with Iberoamericana Banknotes .
