In 1936, the Generalitat decreed the issue of paper money of legal tender to make up for the shortage of currency in circulation. The highest denominations were never produced, although some proofs have been preserved. The design is by the well-known painter and engraver Josep Obiols (1894-1967), while the printing was by the Institut Oliva in Vilanova. The obverse of all the denominations shows the same allegorical reference to Catalonia amongst symbols of farming and industrial work. On the reverse of the 2½-peseta note was a representation of a figure inspired in the sculpture by the ironworker Josep Llimona (1867-1934) set amongst industrial installations.