5 lirot 1955

Common. The 1955 5 Lirot (P-26a) is a regular issue from Israel's first currency series with substantial print run. eBay price data shows consistent sales across multiple condition grades from 2012–2026, with VF examples typically selling for $9.99–$37 and lower grades (F, VG) for under $25. Even PMG-graded examples at lower grades (PMG 20, 40, 55) trade in the $11–$110 range, indicating robust supply in the collector market. The PMG 67 EPQ grade is notably better than most circulated examples, explaining premium pricing, but the underlying note type itself is not scarce.

Issued in 1955 (Hebrew year 5715), this 5 Lirot note reflects Israel's early focus on agricultural development and nation-building in the Negev region, a central theme in the country's post-independence economic narrative. The front design celebrates irrigation and farming advancement in the Negev desert, while the reverse features the Menorah—a national symbol representing Jewish heritage and Israeli sovereignty. This note was part of the Bank of Israel's first series, establishing the visual identity of the young nation's currency during a critical period of economic stabilization and territorial development.

The obverse depicts a symbolic representation of Negev desert development featuring terraced hillsides and agricultural/irrigation activity (likely showing mechanized farming with tractors), emphasizing Israel's agricultural modernization efforts. A distinctive purple iris flower adorns the upper right, a motif reflecting Israel's natural flora. The reverse presents a stylized Menorah (seven-branched candelabrum) with organic, flowing forms rendered in brown and tan tones against light blue and yellow-green gradients—the Menorah being Israel's primary national symbol, also appearing as the watermark. Decorative borders and geometric patterns frame both sides, with green security strips on the lateral edges. The color scheme (brown, cream, green, and purple) provides strong visual distinction and security features.

Front side: 'בנק ישראל' (Bank of Israel), '5' (denomination in numerals), 'תשט״ו' (Hebrew date 1955), 'חמש לירות ישראליות' (Five Israeli Lirot), and serial number 'P622230'. Back side: 'BANK OF ISRAEL' (English), '5' (denomination), and 'بنك إسرائيل' (Bank of Israel in Arabic). The trilingual design reflects Israel's multilingual population and international banking standards of the era.

Intaglio (engraved) printing, evidenced by the fine line work, sharp detail clarity, and dimensional quality visible in both the landscape vignette and the Menorah design. The printer is identified as TDLR (without imprint on the note itself), a standard practice for Bank of Israel notes of this period. Security features include watermark (Menorah), security strips, and the precision of the engraved designs.

This note is cataloged as P-26a (Printer: TDLR, without imprint). The PMG population report indicates a variant P-26s also exists for this Pick number, both printed by TDLR. The serial number visible (P622230) indicates the 'P' series prefix. No overprints, signatures, or date variants are apparent from the visual analysis. The specific variety (a vs. s) typically relates to minor printer or security feature differences; this example represents the P-26a variety as confirmed by catalog data.