The 500 Escudos banknote issued in 1973 by the Banco de Angola is a historic piece from the final years of Portuguese colonial rule, just two years before Angola’s independence in 1975. This uncirculated note features elegant colonial-style engravings, showcasing Portuguese influence combined with imagery reflecting Angola’s land and people. It’s a key collectible for those interested in pre-independence African currencies and colonial-era financial history.
Obverse
Portrait of Portuguese poet Luiz Vaz de Camões (1524-1580) right, Portuguese Angolan National Coat of Arms centre, Denomination below
Script: Latin
Lettering:
BANCO DE ANGOLA
QUINHENTOS
ESCUDOS
Translation: Bank of Angola, Five Hundred Escudos
Reverse
Pedras de Pungo Andongo
Script: Latin
Lettering:
BANCO DE ANGOLA
QUINHENTOS ESCUDOS
Translation: Bank of Escudos, Five Hundred Escudos
Watermark
Luiz de Camões
© Henksmunten (CC BY)
Printer
Bradbury Wilkinson and Company, United Kingdom (1856-1990)
Comments
P#107: UV activity reverse
Henksmunten
Features
| Issuer | Angola |
|---|---|
| Issuing bank | Bank of Angola |
| Ruling authority | Overseas province of Portugal (1951-1975) |
| Type | Standard circulation banknotes |
| Year | 1973 |
| Value | 500 Escudos |
| Currency | Escudo (1958-1977) |
| Composition | Paper |
| Size | 150 × 75 mm |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Demonetized | Yes |
