5 pounds 1981

Common. This note is from a standard circulation series (1976-1993) issued by the Central Bank of Ireland for general use over a 17-year period, indicating substantial print runs. While UNC examples command modest premiums over circulated specimens, the denomination and widespread availability in the numismatic market suggest this Pick number remains common even in superior condition grades. No evidence of recall, limited issuance, or short-lived production period supports a rarity designation.

Issued during the 1976-1993 series period, this 1981 note reflects Ireland's cultural identity in the early 1980s through its bilingual design incorporating Irish (Gaelic) and English text, honoring John Scotus Eriugena—a medieval Irish philosopher and theologian of significant historical importance. The repeated use of Celtic knotwork patterns and the inclusion of medieval manuscript-inspired imagery on the reverse demonstrate the Central Bank's deliberate effort to connect contemporary Irish currency to the nation's rich medieval and Celtic heritage during a period of growing national cultural consciousness. The signatures of Tomás F Ó Cofaigh (Governor) and the Finance Department Secretary authenticate this as official legal tender during a specific window of the note's circulation period.

The obverse features a detailed engraved portrait of John Scotus Eriugena (c. 800-877 CE), the distinguished medieval Irish philosopher and theologian, rendered in classical profile orientation with distinctive curly beard and period-appropriate styling. His portrait is framed by ornate Celtic interlaced geometric patterns and knotwork that serve both aesthetic and security functions. The reverse displays a stylized Celtic mythological creature—likely a dragon or similar figure from medieval Irish manuscript tradition—executed in the same fine-line engraving technique, complemented by the large denomination numeral '25' and institutional text. The warm color palette of orange, tan, brown, and maroon throughout both sides creates visual cohesion while the repeated microprint text background provides security against counterfeiting.

FRONT SIDE: 'Banc Ceannais na hÉireann' (Central Bank of Ireland); 'An Rotharnóir' (The Governor); 'Tomás F Ó Cofaigh' (Governor's name/signature); 'Rúnaí na Roinne Airgeadais' (Secretary of the Finance Department); Serial number 'IFA 616623' with date '12-01-81' (12 January 1981); Denomination '5' and reference '25'. BACK SIDE: 'Central Bank of Ireland' (English); Denomination '25' in large ornate numerals; 'legal tender' (English); Additional Irish/Gaelic text in background pattern (partially legible in visual analysis as decorative repeated text rather than specific inscription blocks).

This note was produced using traditional intaglio (engraved) printing techniques, as evidenced by the fine line detail work visible in the portrait, the sharp geometric patterns, and the consistent ink impression quality observed throughout both sides. The background security text pattern appears to be microprint-style engraving rather than offset printing, indicating a high-security production method typical of Central Bank of Ireland notes from this era. The printer for Irish Central Bank notes of this series was typically De La Rue or similar established security printers, though specific printer attribution for this Pick number would require additional documentation.

This specific example is identified as variety P-71c, representing a particular printing or signature combination within the broader 5 Pound series. The observed signature of Tomás F Ó Cofaigh as Governor and the date of 12-01-81 help establish the precise variety within the series. Serial number prefix 'IFA' and the specific signature block present on this note may be cataloged as distinct varieties; collectors should cross-reference the signature combinations and date ranges in specialized Irish banknote catalogs to confirm exact variety designation and whether this represents a scarcer signature variant.