"Regarding the first three banknotes, the individual features they display (shifted nuemration, foled paper, and the lack of numeration) are unique faults of the production process; these errors that have not been detected in quality control during the printing pocess."

     Regarding the last two notes, the BCRA points out that, in spite of the paper being manufactured in a single layer, the addition of a glue to resist humidity forms a resistant film on both sides of the paper that permits the separation of the note in two layers, in a careful attempt. In any case, there is no possiblity that a fraudulent attempt may be made to pass off cashing a bill for twice its value, since cashing rules dictate that a worn bill must have at least 60% of its surface present.

The Central Bank of Argentine Republic (Banco Central de la Republica Argentina) by means of Communication no. 46376, dated March 19, 2003, authorized the elimination of the term "convertibles" on circulating banknotes. This action was established by Law 25.561, dated January 7, 2002, which in Article 3 repeals articles 1 and 2 of the Law of Convertibility (Ley de Convertibilidad, no. 23,928, dated March 27, 1991. Said decisions are due to the articles 1 and 2 of the already mentioned Convertibility Law that specified that the peso be convertible into American Dollars with the parity of one to one.

     This change began with the $2 note and will continue with the remaining denominations in a progressive manner. It is expressly stated that the banknotes that have the word "convertibles" printed on them will still be able to be used in circulation.

     Roberto A. Bottero, author of the book Argentine Republic Banknotes (Billetes de la Republica Argentina) has published on the Internet the corections and updates on December 31, 2002, of the aforementioned book. Those who may be interested in obtaining it are directed to his emal address: roberbot@hotmail.com.

SOURCE: El Telegrafo del Centro, Ano 8, Numero 28, Abril 2003

Courtesy: Carlos A. Graziadio