This Brazilian banknote represent the 3rd denomination, of the 2nd Cruzeiro (Series 1970, First Family). The Series 1970 replaced the provisional Cruzeiro Novo Overprint, which were introduced in 1967. Unlike the earlier 1st Cruzeiro notes, which were partially based on pre-1971 US Dollars. The notes of the Series 1970, have a radically different color-coded appearance.
Notably in 1970, the term "Novo" was dropped from "Cruzeiro Novo". As such it can initially be somewhat confusing, when studying the general history of Brazilian banknotes. As general rule, only the Cruzeiro Novo Overprint are true Cruzeiro Novo notes. Although the 2nd Cruzeiro, which replaced them differed only in name.
The Series 1970 was superseded by the colorful Second Family series, issued from 1981-1985.
Observe
The observe depicts Dom Pedro II (1825-1891), the 2nd Emperor of Brazil. Pedro II served as the last Emperor of Brazil, after a 58 year long rule. He inherited an empire from his father, during a period which it was near collapse. Regardless of these circumstances this he managed to recover Brazil, turning it into an emerging world power. Strangely despite his popularity he was overthrown, in 1889.
The header above reads, (trans.) the "Central Bank of Brazil". The note's "Ten Cruzeiros" is listed at the center. On a rippled strip, running horizontally along the note's center. Directly below are the signatures of the Monetary Council and Central Bank Presidents.
Along the upper-left and lower-right are the note's dual serial numbers (B 04090 011808). An usual feature of these serial numbers is their split nature. In order to fit the 12-digit long serial number, it has been broken into 2 separate rows. Providing the impression of a double serial number.
Running vertically from the center-left of the note, are closely packed "bars". These bars serve multiple passive security functions. At the bottom is a latent image reading "10", representing the note's Ten Cruzeiro face value. Above this latent text is a hidden watermark area, it depicts Dom Pedro II when properly back lit.
To the left of the watermark is a large number "10", on an elaborate guilloché backing. This simply refers to the note's before mentioned face value. As does the number "10", at the upper-right corner.
Reverse
The reverse features a pair of sculptures, by artist Antônio Francisco Lisboa. These sculptures represent part of a Twelve Prophets of Aleijadinho. Featured at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos. In the foreground is the Prophet Daniel, celebrated for the rebuilding of the city of Jerusalem. At his back is assumed to be the Prophet Jonah.
In regards to the reminder of the reverse, it somewhat mirrors the observe with some mirror format changes. Notably underprint and center strip has been changed to a different shade. While the "Dez Cruzeiros" text has been dropped to the lower center. The serial numbers and signatures have also been omitted. The fine text as lower-right, references the Brazilian Mint.
1970 Cruzeiro Gallery
(Gallery contains all denominations of the Series 1970 Cruzeiro)
Additional Notes
This note's dimensions are 157 x 73 mm or 6.18 x 2.87 in, slightly larger than a US Dollar.
The preferable method to preserve this note are standard sized protective sleeves.
The Cruzeiro novo ISO code was BRB, it used NCr$ as its official symbol.