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The Redemptress Princess Of Brazil: 5 Centavos (Brazil, 1967)-Article

Updated: Apr 12

This Brazilian banknote represents the 2nd denomination of the Cruzeiro Novo Overprint (1967). Which was a provisional currency issued in 1967, as a temporary replacement for the 1st Cruzeiro. As rampant inflation had dramatically reduced their purchasing power. The notes of 1st Cruzeiro (Estampa 2, Series 1953) served as the basis for this temporary currency.


These notes can be identified by their special stamp. Which revalues the note to 1,000th of the note's original face value. On 14 May 1970, the notes were replaced by the 2nd Cruzeiro (Series 1970, First Family). Notably in 1970, the term "Novo" was dropped from "Cruzeiro Novo". Thus occasionally causing confusion amongst unaware collectors.


Observe

The observe features a portrait of Princess Isabel of Brazil (1846-1921). Princess Isabel was the daughter of Emperor Pedro II and heir to the throne. She is remember for emancipating Brazil's slaves in 1888, while serving as Imperial Regent. After Marshal Deodoro da Fonseca overthrew the Brazilian monarchy in 1889. Princess Isabel lived exiled in France for the next 30 years.


The note's header reads (trans.) "Republic of United States of Brazil". The official name of the First Brazilian Republic (1889-1930). Directly below this header is a reference to the Brazilian "National Treasury", running along the top of the portrait. While below the portrait lists the note's (trans.) "Fifty Cruzeiros Legal Value".


Which is reinforced by numerous number "50s", located throughout the note. Including it's borders and hidden amongst it's underprint. Although notably this is only relevant to the note's original face value. Toward the portrait's right is a stamp, which revalues the note to 5 Centavo or 0.05 Cruzeiro Novo. As before mentioned this is 1,000th of the note's original face value.


Other notable features of the note includes its dual serial numbers (016133), which run diagonal from each other. Opposite of the serial numbers are series indicator (Estampa 2A), representing British printer Thomas De La Rue, London. Additionally the signatures of the Central Bank President and Minister of Finance can be seen, flanking the lower portrait.


Reverse

The reverse depicts the painting “Lei Aurea”, an allegory for the 1888 Aurea Law. Which abolished all forms of slavery in Brazil. This is same historic law signed by Princess Isabel, while acting a regent for her father Emperor Pedro II. The artwork seen here, was created by painter Cadmo Fausto de Sousa. Who work can be seen on various Cruzeiro banknotes, issued from 1943-1967.


The note's header and footer are read as a pair. Together they translate to, the "Republic of United States of Brazil". Besides the header are a pair of small number "50"s, representing the note's previous face value. Six additional number "50"s can be seen flanking the main art, on decorative guilloché backings.


Unlike the observe the reverse border is broad and even. Some minor staining can be seen from excess ink. This small defect can be seen in other US Dollar inspired banknotes of the era. Such as the Mexican 1 Peso printed by the American Bank Note Company, from 1936 to 1970.

 

Additional Notes

  • This note's dimensions are 157 x 67 mm or 6.18 x 2.64 in, slightly wider 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.

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