Object Image

The 'white fiver'

Banknotes with this design were first issued in 1855, and were in circulation for over a century. The note features a medallion of Britannia, the symbol of the Bank, designed by artist Daniel Maclise (1806-1870).

Britannia holds an olive branch, representing peace. The beehive behind her represents cooperation and industry.

These £5 notes became known as ‘white fivers’ after they were replaced by a colourful blue note design in 1956. This is one of the last notes of its type, from June 1956.

Text and image are copyright of Bank of England....

1956
Paper
E19/005

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