Uruguay honors the Escayola Theatre with a new silver coin

Uruguay honors the Escayola Theatre with a new silver coin

Share this article:

The Central Bank of Uruguay (BCU) unveiled a new numismatic gem in homage to one of the country's most cherished cultural landmarks: the reopening of the Teatro Escayola in Tacuarembó , a cradle of history, art, and tradition. This special issue reaffirms the BCU's commitment not only to the economy but also to the preservation of national heritage.

Image from BCU

A tribute that unites history and culture

Minted in .900 silver , the coin has a diameter of 33 millimeters , weighs 12,5 grams , and has a face value of 2.000 Uruguayan pesos . Its mintage is limited to 1.500 pieces , making it a coveted item for collectors and history enthusiasts.

The obverse: the legacy of Carlos Gardel

On the obverse , the coin features the portrait of Carlos Gardel , the legendary "Zorzal Criollo" (Creole Nightingale), a symbol of tango and an immortal figure of Río de la Plata culture. His image is accompanied by the inscription " Eastern Republic of Uruguay " and a reference to Law No. 20.228 , which officially authorized its issuance. This side of the coin pays homage to the profound connection between Gardel, Tacuarembó, and the country's musical identity, integrating art and tradition in a single piece of silver.

Image from BCU

The reverse: a tribute to the Escayola Theatre

On the reverse side , the façade of the Teatro Escayola is featured , with its characteristic seven semicircular arches and the historic lantern that announced each performance. The dates of the building's inauguration and reopening are also included , symbols of Tacuarembó's cultural rebirth. This design evokes the essence of Uruguayan architectural heritage and celebrates the community spirit surrounding this iconic theater.

Image from BCU

The symbolic value of the currency

During the presentation, the Vice President of the Central Bank of Uruguay (BCU), Ana Claudia de los Heros , and Director Julio Luis Sanguinetti , highlighted the profound symbolic value of this issuance. De los Heros emphasized that, in addition to its traditional functions—preserving price stability, regulating the financial system, and managing reserves—the Central Bank is committed to promoting economic and financial literacy and education.

The commemorative coins, he explained, “allow us to preserve collective memory and pay tribute to the milestones that define our identity as a nation.” In this case, the tribute to the Teatro Escayola in Tacuarembó symbolizes the union between art, community, and historical heritage.

A symbol of belonging and national pride

The launch of this coin reflects the Central Bank of Uruguay's (BCU) desire to continue contributing to the recognition of Uruguayan heritage , strengthening the link between culture and the economy. As De los Heros noted, "Culture continues to unite us throughout the country, and the Central Bank wishes to continue supporting that path."

Visit the following link to learn all the details of this commemorative piece, its availability and its value within modern collecting:

Note: This website participates in the eBay Affiliate Program. Purchases made through ad links may generate a commission for us, which helps us maintain and improve our content. Thank you for your support!


Share this article: