2004–2005 Banco Central de Costa Rica – 1000 & 2000 Colones Notes View Watchlist >
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Lot # NC214
System ID # 25615003
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2004–2005 Banco Central de Costa Rica – 1000 & 2000 Colones Notes
At the turn of the 21st century, Costa Rica undertook one of its most elegant modern currency redesigns—an effort to merge artistry, history, and national identity in paper form. The resulting series, printed by François-Charles Oberthur of France between 1997 and 2009, became the country’s final generation of engraved paper notes before the polymer era. Offered here are two of its most evocative examples: the ₡1,000 colones (2004) and ₡2,000 colones (2005) issues.
The ₡1,000 “Mil Colones” celebrates Tomás Soley Güell, the economist who laid the groundwork for Costa Rica’s insurance system. Its reverse shows the Instituto Nacional de Seguros building—modernist architecture standing as civic monument. Rich red intaglio printwork, dense guilloche patterns, and a demetalized security thread combine to illustrate both technical sophistication and national confidence. It is a portrait of a republic’s institutional heart rendered in ink and fiber.
The ₡2,000 “Dos Mil Colones” honors Clodomiro Picado Twight, pioneering biochemist and early researcher of antivenoms. The reverse turns outward to the sea: a hammerhead shark and dolphin glide across turquoise fields, an ode to Isla del Coco and Costa Rica’s marine sanctuaries. With crisp linework and vibrant underprinting, the note captures the country’s dual identity—scientific innovation balanced with ecological wonder.
Together, these companion pieces narrate Costa Rica’s story in miniature: policy and nature, intellect and landscape, both translated into secure engraving and precise artistry. They mark the closing chapter of the nation’s paper-currency tradition and the dawn of its modern design philosophy.
Condition:
Both notes show signs of use with visible creases and handling wear, as shown in photos. The ₡1,000 colones note remains fully intact with moderate circulation folds. The ₡2,000 colones note has one corner cut, likely from prior handling or cancellation. Colors and text remain vibrant and fully legible. Offered as shown—actual notes pictured.
Dimensions (each):
156 × 67 mm
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