An oak tree (<i>Quercus</i> sp.) in coins and paper money of Costa Rica (1848-1948)

Abstract

In 1848 Dr. Castro Madriz issued the decree which established the Republic of Costa Rica and its new coinage. An oak tree (Quercus sp.) was engraved on silver coins as a symbol of the strength and hospitality of the new Republic. These coins were minted between 1850 and 1862 (1/4, 1/8 and 1/16 of Peso) and between 1864 and 1875 (50, 25, 10, and 5 cents of Peso). This paper provides information on the significance of the oak tree in the socio-political context of mid XIX century Costa Rica. It also provides estimates of the number of pieces minted of each value for a total of approximately 1.871.000 coins. The quarter Pesos of 1853 and 1855 are scarce while the 50 cents of 1875 are relatively common, and all denominations with little wear are rare. The Q. salicifolia tree is similar to that engraved on the coins. After 1880 an oak branch was engraved in different issues of paper money, mainly as a crown for the head of Liberty. The last bill with this symbol was issued in 1943, with a value of 1 colón.