Colombia 5,000 Pesos Banknote - 2016 Series - Poet José Asunción Silva - UNC

A Poetic Tribute to the Colombian Moorlands

This stunning brown-toned banknote honors José Asunción Silva (1865–1896), a central figure in Spanish-American Modernism. Beyond its role as currency, this note serves as a canvas for Colombian literature and the unique biodiversity of the high-altitude Andean ecosystems.

Historic & Design Highlights:

• Obverse (Front): Features a detailed portrait of José Asunción Silva. To the left of his portrait, a full-body silhouette shows him standing with his back to the viewer holding an umbrella, a nod to his dandyish style in 19th-century Bogotá. You will also find a copper-to-green color-shifting Puya plant and a detailed bumblebee.

• Reverse (Back): Showcases the majestic Páramos of Colombia (alpine tundras). The scene includes a view of the Andes mountains, high-elevation plants known as Frailejones, an Andean condor, and a Spectacled bear.

• The Poetry: On the right side of the reverse, you will find the micro-printed text of Silva's poem "Melancolía" (Melancholy).

  Note: While Silva's most famous work, "Nocturno III," appeared on the older 5,000 peso series, this modern 2016 design features the somber and beautiful "Melancolía."

• Security Features: A windowed security ribbon that changes from fuchsia to green, a watermark of the poet’s face, and tactile lines on the edges for the visually impaired.

Item Details:

• Issuer: Banco de la República, Colombia.

• Denomination: 5,000 Pesos (5 Mil Pesos).

• Series: New Family (Launched 2016).

• Dimensions: 133 × 66 mm.

• Condition: Uncirculated (UNC) – Pristine, bank-fresh condition with crisp edges and no handling wear.

Collector's Perspective: This series is highly regarded for its vertical orientation on the obverse and horizontal on the reverse. The inclusion of an entire poem makes it a favorite for "Thematic" collectors focused on literature. It represents the transition in Colombian currency where the word "Mil" (Thousand) is used prominently, preparing the public for a future redenomination.