The Puerto Rican independence movement started in 1860. Shortly after the commencement of the Cuban Ten Year War (1868-1878), notes were issued on August 17, 1869 by the Junta Central Republicana de Cuba y Puerto Rico, a military revolutionist group based in New York to raise funds for the liberation of Cuba and Puerto Rico from Spain.

The President of the Junta was a Cuban, José Morales Lemus, and his Secretary was a Puerto Rican, Dr. José Francisco Basora. They were arrested in June 1869 for violating the neutrality laws of the United States. These notes were convertible to bonds in minimum quantities of 100 Pesos. These notes are very collectable, and command high prices. Recently, one of the very rare 20 peso sold for $26,000. The 10 peso note is worth approximately $5,000.

For more information on the Cuban Numismatic Association, see:www.cubanumis.com