Costa Rica

Costa Rican colón banknotes from the Banco Central de Costa Rica.

The colón takes its name from Christopher Columbus, Cristóbal Colón in Spanish.

History and frequently asked questions below ↓

About Costa Rica banknotes

Costa Rica introduced the colón in 1896, and the Banco Central de Costa Rica has issued notes since 1950. Its newer series, introduced from 2010, features the country's ecosystems and wildlife in vivid colours, while older notes show presidents and national scenes.

See also: Americas banknotes, Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the name colón come from?

From Cristóbal Colón, the Spanish name of Christopher Columbus. El Salvador also used a colón until 2001.

Who issues Costa Rican banknotes?

The Banco Central de Costa Rica, founded in 1950.

When was the colón introduced?

In 1896.

Are your Costa Rican banknotes genuine?

Yes. Every Costa Rican note we sell is a genuine banknote, never a copy or replica. Each listing states the grade, gives the Pick catalogue number where one exists and shows the front and back, and every order ships tracked from Hungary.