A Classic Piece of British Military Heritage

Secure this pristine, uncirculated Series D £5 banknote, a design that was a staple of British life for two decades. This note features the celebrated "Iron Duke" and represents the latter phase of the Series D run, known for its refined printing quality and iconic historical imagery.

Historic & Design Highlights:

• Obverse (Front): Features the "mature" portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. To her left, the vignette of Nike, the Greek Goddess of Victory, steering a chariot, serves as a thematic bridge to the military triumphs depicted on the reverse.

• Reverse (Back): A stunning tribute to Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington (1769–1852). He is depicted in his full military regalia alongside a vivid battle scene from the Peninsular War, complete with soldiers, cavalry, and artillery.

• Signatory: Features the signature of D.H.F. Somerset (David Somerset), who served as the Chief Cashier of the Bank of England from 1980 to 1988.

• Security: Includes a clear watermark area and an embedded security thread.

Item Details:

• Issuer: Bank of England.

• Series: Series D (Issued 1971–1991).

• Denomination: Five Pounds (£5).

• Serial Number: JS79 981901..

Collector's Perspective: For those building a Bank of England signature collection, the Somerset signature is a key requirement. Finding these in JS prefix runs in true uncirculated condition is highly desirable, as these were among the last paper £5 notes produced before the transition to the Series E (George Stephenson) design in 1990.