Bernardo O’Higgins Riquelme, a leading figure of Chilean independence, was born in Chillán in 1778. Following the Battle of Chacabuco, he was appointed Supreme Director by the Cabildo of Santiago in 1817, a position from which he governed the country until his forced abdication in 1823. During this period, known as the Patria Nueva, he led the transition from the Bourbon monarchy to an independent state. His strong and centralised government promoted significant political, military and institutional reforms: the constitutions of 1818 and 1822 were enacted, decisive support was given to the independence of Peru, and important institutional foundations were laid, serving as a bridge between the colonial order and the republican state.

In Chilean numismatics, Bernardo O’Higgins has become one of the most frequently represented figures. Throughout the country’s monetary history, his portrait has appeared on thirteen different coins minted from 1940 to the present day, and on six banknotes, the oldest of which was issued in 1932. During some periods, his presence became almost dominant in the money in circulation. Even on issues where O’Higgins does not appear as the principal figure, his image can be seen on the reverse of certain banknotes, illustrating key episodes of independence, such as the Embrace of Maipú or scenes related to the Battle of Rancagua in 1814. The significance of O’Higgins as a hero of independence has also extended beyond Chile’s borders: he has even appeared on banknotes of the Argentinian Republic, in recognition of his role in the campaigns for independence fought alongside José de San Martín.

In addition to coins and banknotes, the Casa de Moneda has issued various commemorative medals dedicated to him, honouring both his role as Supreme Director and his status as the Liberator of Chile.