1980 Bank of England 5 Pounds – A Tribute to Military Leadership
Discover the 1980 Bank of England 5 Pounds banknote (P-378c), a striking piece featuring the legacy of Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, one of Britain’s most celebrated military leaders.
This Banknote has Pinholes in the surface.
Historical Context
Issued by the Bank of England, this £5 note was part of the Series D banknotes (1971–1993), celebrating Britain’s historical figures. The design honors the Duke of Wellington, renowned for his victory at the Battle of Waterloo and his contributions to British military strategy.
Key Features & Specifications
Pick Number: P-378c
Denomination: 5 British Pounds
Material: Paper
Issuing Authority: Bank of England
Size: 142 × 75 mm
Printer: Bank of England
Demonetized: Withdrawn from circulation in 1993
Cashier’s Signature: D.H.F. Somerset, Chief Cashier of the Bank of England
Design Elements
Front: Features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, alongside security features ensuring authenticity. The note includes the signature of D.H.F. Somerset, Chief Cashier of the Bank of England.
Back: Showcases Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, accompanied by a battle scene from the Peninsular War, highlighting his military achievements.
Lettering on the Note
The front of the note includes the traditional Bank of England promise: "I promise to pay the bearer on demand the sum of five pounds."
Additionally, the note features:
"Bank of England" prominently displayed at the top.
Serial number printed twice for security.
Denomination ("£5") in multiple locations for easy identification.
Security Features
Watermark: Portrait of the Duke of Wellington
Security Thread: Thin embedded thread for authenticity
UV-sensitive Elements: Certain sections glow under ultraviolet light
Collector’s & Gift Appeal
This 5 Pounds banknote holds significant historical and artistic value, making it a sought-after item for collectors and a unique keepsake. It’s a perfect gift for: ✨ History enthusiasts – A tribute to the Duke of Wellington’s military legacy. ✨ Individuals born in 1980 – A nostalgic banknote from their birth year, connecting them to Britain’s currency history. ✨ Collectors of British banknotes – A rare piece from the pre-polymer era, withdrawn from circulation in 1993.
Why Collect This Banknote?
Owning the 1980 Bank of England 5 Pounds note is more than just acquiring currency—it’s holding a piece of history, celebrating Britain’s military achievements and cultural legacy.
