Published on Friday, May 30, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The Central Bank of Costa Rica has announced that two series of ₡1,000 colones bills, equivalent to roughly $2, will no longer be considered legal tender later this year.

Beginning November 1, red-colored bills from the A and B series will lose their commercial value and can no longer be used for payments, according to bank officials. These bills, though currently still in circulation, will be officially withdrawn as part of a transition to more secure currency.

There are currently three series of ₡1,000 colones bills: A, B, and C.

The most recent, Series C, features enhanced security measures, including a "prominent vertical transparent window" that changes color when held up to the light.

In contrast, the older A and B bills, first issued in 2011 and 2016, respectively, feature a smaller "leaf-shaped window" in the upper right corner that also shifts color but is less secure.

After November 1, only Series C bills will be recognized as valid legal tender. Series A and B bills will still be accepted at banks, both public and private, but only to exchange them for Series C notes.

The Central Bank emphasized that individuals exchanging large amounts may be required to complete a formal declaration, as mandated by the country's "Laws on Narcotics, Psychotropic Substances, Unauthorized Drug Use, Related Activities, Money Laundering, and Terrorism Financing."

According to the bank, approximately 94% of A and B series notes have already been removed from circulation.

Series C, which has been in use since 2021, will remain the only ₡1,000 colones bill recognized for commercial transactions.

To help ensure broader awareness, AM Costa Rica urges readers to share this important financial update.

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Have you heard of any expats experiencing issues when exchanging old ₡1,000 bills for the new ones? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com