The Banco Español del Río de la Plata was a Spanish bank established in 1856 in Uruguay, during the period when it was part of the Spanish empire. It played a significant role in financing the expansion of Spanish commerce and industry in the region. The bank issued various types of bonds and securities to raise capital, some of which have now become rare collectible items known as scripophily. These historical financial instruments provide insight into the economic history of both Uruguay and Spain during the 19th century.