5 Bolívares VEF #581

Front

Giant Armadillo (Priodontes maximus), locally known as Cuspón or Cachicamo Gigante, the largest species of armadillo found in South America including the Venezuelan Llanos. The front features an adult and juvenile armadillo, representing Venezuela's biodiversity and natural heritage. The species is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and hunting, making its depiction on currency part of conservation awareness efforts.

Back

Pedro Camejo (c. 1790–1821), known as 'Negro Primero' (The First Black), Venezuelan military hero who fought in Simón Bolívar's army during the War of Independence. Born enslaved, he gained freedom through military service and became a cavalry officer, distinguishing himself in numerous battles. He died at the Battle of Carabobo (1821), famously riding to his commander to report 'I came to tell you goodbye, because I am dead' before succumbing to his wounds. He is honored as a symbol of Afro-Venezuelan contribution to independence.

History

This 5 bolívares note belongs to the Bolívar Fuerte series introduced in 2007 during a currency redenomination that removed three zeros from the old bolívar. The series inscription '15 DE ENERO DE 2018' indicates this specific printing date. The note features wildlife (the giant armadillo) on the front and a military independence hero on the back, following Venezuela's thematic pattern of pairing national biodiversity with historical figures. The serial number format 'C01270477' follows the standard BCV alphanumeric system. The Bolívar Fuerte was replaced by the Bolívar Soberano in 2018 (removing five zeros) and subsequently by the Bolívar Digital in 2021 (removing six more zeros) during Venezuela's hyperinflation crisis. This note was demonetized in August 2021 when the digital bolívar became sole legal tender.