1981 Brunei 5 Ringgit Banknote – Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah & Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

Pick# 7a | Paper Issue | Bradbury Wilkinson

The 1981 Brunei 5 Ringgit note is a classic example of Southeast Asian banknote design, combining royal portraiture with Islamic architectural elegance. Issued by the Government of Brunei (Kerajaan Brunei) during the early years of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s reign, this note reflects the nation’s cultural pride and political stability in the pre-independence era.

Design Features

Obverse: Portrait of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in military uniform, symbolizing leadership and tradition

Reverse: Detailed engraving of the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, a landmark of Islamic architecture in Bandar Seri Begawan

Watermark: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s profile

Printer: Bradbury Wilkinson & Co., United Kingdom

Color Scheme: Green on multicolor underprint

Specifications
Country: Brunei Darussalam
Denomination: 5 Ringgit
Year of Issue: 1981
Size: 127 × 71 mm
Material: Paper
Security Features: Watermark, fine line engraving
Series: 1972–1988 “Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah I” Issue

Collector Appeal

This note is highly sought after for its historical significance and visual appeal. It represents Brunei’s pre-modern currency era and features one of the most iconic mosques in Southeast Asia. Collectors value it for its:

Royal and religious symbolism

Scarcity in higher grades

British-printed craftsmanship

Transitional relevance before Brunei’s full independence in 1984

Ideal for collectors of Islamic banknotes, Southeast Asian currency, and royal portrait issues, the 1981 Brunei 5 Ringgit note is a standout piece in any world currency collection.