A Journey through British Engineering History

Relive the era of paper currency with this set of four Series E £5 banknotes. These notes are historically significant as they were the first to feature the "small size" format and modern security features like the metallic thread and enhanced watermarks. Each note features the celebrated "Father of Railways," George Stephenson.

Key Design Highlights:

• Obverse (Front): Features the mature portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Roger Withington. A small engraving of Britannia is seated on the left, a traditional symbol of the Bank of England since 1694.

• Reverse (Back): A stunning tribute to George Stephenson (1781–1848). The design includes:

  • Stephenson's portrait.

  • The Rocket steam locomotive.

  • The Skerne Bridge on the Stockton and Darlington Railway (the world's first public railway).

• Security: Features a clear oval watermark area and a vertical security thread.

Collection Details:

• Issuer: Bank of England

• Series: Series E (Issued 1990–2003)

• Denomination: Five Pounds (£5)

• Signatories Included: * Merlyn Lowther (The first woman to sign a Bank of England note).

  • G.M. Gill (Graham Gill).

• Condition: Very Fine (VF) to About Uncirculated (AU) – Notes are crisp with light handling evidence; great eye appeal for a type-set collector.

Collector's Perspective: This set is particularly interesting because it includes the Merlyn Lowther signature. Her tenure as Chief Cashier (1999–2003) marked a historic milestone for the Bank. Additionally, the G.M. Gill signatures (bottom note) represent the earlier 1990s issues, allowing you to show the transition of the note's production over time.