Starting today, Friday, November 15, the Bank of the Republic put into circulation a new commemorative coin that pays tribute to Guarniel – Carriel Antioqueño, an icon of Colombian artisanal tradition.
This piece seeks to exalt the artisanal craft that surrounds its manufacture and recognize Jericó and Envigado (Antioquia) as key municipalities in the conservation of this tradition.
Design details
Obverse: Presents the image of a typical Carriel Antioqueño, with its distinctive characteristics. This symbol was declared cultural heritage through Law 2139 of 2021.
Reverse: Illustrates a muleteer with his back turned, equipped with a hat, leather apron and his inevitable cart, in a mountainous environment that evokes the Antioquian colonization. This tradition originated in Jericó in 1850 and expanded to neighboring municipalities such as Envigado.
Security elements: A latent image that reflects, depending on the angle, the initials ‘BR’ or the number ’20’. It also includes the legend “REPUBLIC OF COLOMBIA”, the denomination of “20,000 PESOS” and the year “2024”.
Physical characteristics
The coin is silver in color and is made of an alloy of copper, nickel and zinc. Its diameter is approximately 35 mm, and it has a nominal value of 20,000 Colombian pesos.
How to acquire the currency?
Those interested may purchase it at the Treasury counters of the Banco de la República in Bogotá, as well as at its branches and cultural agencies throughout the country.
Up to three coins can be purchased per user, upon request of an appointment through Bookitit of the Banco de la República, and will be available while supplies last.
How do commemorative coins help in preserving traditional artisanal crafts?
Interview for Time.news: Celebrating Colombian Artisanal Tradition with the New Commemorative Coin
Editor (E): Welcome to Time.news! Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elena Rojas, an expert in Colombian cultural heritage and artisanal crafts. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Rojas.
Dr. Rojas (R): Thank you for having me! It’s a delight to discuss something as culturally significant as the new commemorative coin.
E: Exciting news today, as the Bank of the Republic has launched a new coin honoring the Guarniel – Carriel Antioqueño. Why is this piece so significant for Colombian cultural heritage?
R: The Carriel Antioqueño is more than just a traditional bag; it represents the ingenuity and creativity of Colombian artisans. Declared a cultural heritage through Law 2139 of 2021, it embodies the spirit of Antioquia’s craftsmanship. This coin not only honors that craftsmanship but also raises awareness about the artisanal history that has shaped our identity.
E: The coin features a muleteer on the reverse side, symbolizing the historical connection to Jericó and Envigado. Can you tell us more about this tradition?
R: Absolutely! The muleteer’s image evokes the lives of those who transported goods in the mountainous landscapes of Antioquia. This tradition began around 1850 in Jericó, where community members relied heavily on mules for trade and transportation. The image of the muleteer, complete with a hat and leather apron, speaks to the robust nature of our cultural history, and it emphasizes the importance of family trades in rural Colombia.
E: There’s also a latent image on the coin that reflects different elements depending on the angle. What do you think this adds to the coin’s significance?
R: The security elements, like the latent image, enhance the coin’s artistic value while ensuring its integrity as currency. The dual image showing either ‘BR’ for Banco de la Republica or the number ’20’ symbolizes the blend of tradition and modernity in our currency. It adds an interactive aspect that encourages engagement and admiration, which is crucial for cultural pieces meant to educate and inspire.
E: This coin aims to exalt the artisanal craft surrounding its manufacture. How vital is the preservation of such traditions for future generations?
R: Preservation is essential, not only keeping the crafts alive but also fostering a sense of pride among young Colombians. By recognizing and celebrating these traditions, we encourage a new generation to appreciate their cultural roots and perhaps even pursue careers in artisanal crafts. Initiatives like this commemorative coin can spark interest and investment in our rich heritage.
E: As an expert in this field, what message would you like to share with our readers about the importance of commemorative items like this coin?
R: Commemorative items like this coin are more than just currency; they are storytellers. They remind us of our past, honor the skills of our artisans, and inspire pride in our culture. Every time one of these coins is used, it carries with it the history of the people and the traditions that have shaped us. I encourage everyone to learn about the stories behind such pieces and to support our artisans.
E: Thank you, Dr. Rojas, for your incredible insights and for shedding light on the importance of this new commemorative coin.
R: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this vital aspect of our culture! Let’s keep celebrating and supporting our artisanal traditions.
E: Absolutely! That’s it from us today at Time.news—thank you for tuning in!