2004 Bank of England 5 Pounds – A Tribute to Social Reform
Discover the 2004 Bank of England 5 Pounds banknote (P-391c), a striking piece featuring the legacy of Elizabeth Fry, a pioneering social reformer known for her work in prison reform and humanitarian efforts.
Historical Context
Issued by the Bank of England, this £5 note was part of the Series E banknotes, celebrating Britain’s contributions to social justice. The design honors Elizabeth Fry, whose advocacy for humane treatment of prisoners reshaped policies in the 19th century.
Key Features & Specifications
Pick Number: P-391c
Denomination: 5 British Pounds
Material: Paper
Issuing Authority: Bank of England
Size: 135 × 70 mm
Printer: Bank of England
Demonetized: Withdrawn from circulation on May 5, 2017
Cashier’s Signature: Andrew Bailey, 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 Andrew Bailey, Chief Cashier of the Bank of England.
Back: Showcases Elizabeth Fry, accompanied by an image of women and children in a workhouse, symbolizing her efforts in social reform.
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 Queen Elizabeth II
Security Thread: Windowed security thread embedded 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: ✨ Social justice advocates – A tribute to Elizabeth Fry’s humanitarian contributions. ✨ Individuals born in 2004 – 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 ✨ Collectors of British banknotes – A rare piece from the pre-polymer era, withdrawn from circulation in 2017.
Why Collect This Banknote?
Owning the 2004 Bank of England 5 Pounds note is more than just acquiring currency—it’s holding a piece of history, celebrating Britain’s social progress and cultural legacy.
