Huh, who knew. My passport was stolen in Sept '07 and def didn't bring that. IIRC, I had my old passport though which is valid for ID purposes plus license, etc.
There must be some way around that though, when travelers get their passports stolen, they're not stranded in that location until they get the birth cert signed and delivered.
eta - just checked and it doesn't say it's required. Exact info from the US Embassy website says (for lost and stolen passports)
http://argentina.usembassy.gov/passports.html
Lost or Stolen Passports
If your passport has been lost or stolen please come to the Embassy, Colombia Ave, 4300 on any working day between Monday and Friday from 8:30-12:00 pm.
You will need to bring the following:
• Photo identification,
if available (driver's license, etc.).
• Proof of citizenship,
if available (copy of your passport, US birth certificate or Naturalization Certificate),
• Police report of the loss or theft
• One (1) 5cm x 5cm passport photograph
• Fee: U$ 135
So yes, if you have a copy as well as a license, etc, it's def worth a try.
