1951 Spain 1 Peseta Banknote for Sale – Celebrating Cervantes’ Legacy in Postwar Spain
Issued by the Banco de España, the 1951 1 Peseta banknote honors Miguel de Cervantes’ enduring literary influence through the iconic figure of Don Quixote. Released during Francisco Franco’s regime, this note reflects Spain’s cultural nationalism and postwar monetary stabilization. It was officially put into circulation in 1952 and remained legal tender until its demonetization in 2021.
Key Features & Historical Significance
Issuer: Banco de España
Denomination: 1 Peseta
Year of Issue: 19 November 1951
Pick Number: P-139
Printer: Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre, Spain
Size: Approx. 84 × 59 mm
Material: Paper banknote with letterpress and lithographic printing
Series 1951 Issue (Series A–T and unlettered)
Date of Circulation: 11 March 1952
Date of Withdrawal: 1 January 2021
Design Features
Obverse: Bust of Don Quixote facing left, symbolizing Spain’s literary heritage Multicolor underprint with geometric framing Text: “BANCO DE ESPAÑA – UNA PESETA DE CURSO LEGAL – Madrid, 19 de Noviembre de 1951” Black print with red serial number Signatures:
Joaquín Benjumea y Burín – Governor
Antonio Victoriano Martín Martín – Comptroller
Joaquín Serrano García – Cashier
Reverse: Central oval featuring Don Quixote’s helmet, spear, shield, basin, and books Blue and black print with multicolor underprint Geometric background and denomination text
Watermark: None reported
Engraver: José Luis López Sánchez-Toda
Why Collect This Banknote?
The 1951 1 Peseta note offers collectors a compact yet culturally rich artifact from mid-20th century Spain. Its tribute to Don Quixote—one of the most translated and influential novels in world literature—underscores Spain’s pride in its literary canon. With its modest denomination and refined design, this note serves as a historical bridge between artistic legacy and postwar economic identity.
