5 dinars 1965 specimen

Uncommon. While specimen notes from this era are less common than circulated regular issues, the 5 dinar P-11s from 1965 is not exceptionally rare. eBay market pricing for UNC specimens ranges from approximately $85–$999, with several sales in the $100–$110 range, suggesting moderate collector demand. The 2019 catalog value of $500 for UNC specimens indicates this variety commands a modest premium over circulated examples but is not in the 'rare' category. The wide range in eBay prices likely reflects varying buyer demand and condition assessment rather than scarcity.

Issued under the Law of 1959, this 5 dinar note was produced in 1965 during the reign of King Hussein II, a period of consolidation for the newly independent Jordanian state. The prominent imagery of Petra's Treasury reflects Jordan's cultural heritage and archaeological significance, while the inclusion of the monarch's portrait reinforces the nation's political identity during the Cold War era. The specimen designation indicates this was a note prepared for presentation and archival purposes rather than general circulation.

The obverse features a formal three-quarter portrait of King Hussein II positioned at left, depicted in profile facing right, wearing a formal suit and tie. The portrait is complemented by an ornate circular emblem with intricate geometric and calligraphic patterns rendered in gold/tan at center-right. The reverse depicts the Khazne al-Firaun (Treasury of the Pharaoh) at Petra, shown as a monumental classical structure with multiple columns and a columned portico facade, rendered in detailed engraving style against a rocky mountainous landscape with vegetation. Both sides feature decorative corner designs with repeating architectural motifs and circular ornamental borders. The color scheme throughout is predominantly pink/rose with tan, beige, and gold accents.

Front: 'الجمهورية العربية' (The Arab Republic) in Arabic text at top; 'SPECIMEN' in red diagonal overprint; serial number indicators shown. Reverse: 'CENTRAL BANK OF JORDAN' in English at top; 'FIVE DINARS' denomination in English; 'TREASURY-PETRA' identification of the depicted landmark; 'SPECIMEN' in red diagonal overprint; decorative '5' in corner frames.

Intaglio engraving with multicolor printing on watermarked paper. The detailed architectural rendering of Petra and the intricate geometric patterns of the circular emblem are characteristic of high-quality intaglio work. Per the PMG population report, this note was printed by TDLR (Thomas De La Rue), a premier security printer. The specimen overprint in red diagonal text and the two white circular perforations are typical specimen markings applied to notes intended for non-circulation purposes.

This is the P-11s variety (specimen note) as designated in the Pick catalog. The PMG population report identifies two cataloged variants for the base Pick-11 number: P-11a and P-11s (this note), both printed by TDLR. The 's' designation identifies this as the specimen issue, distinguished by the red diagonal 'SPECIMEN' overprint and the two white circular perforations. The note carries the Law of 1959 date as printed on the obverse, and the 1965 date represents the actual year of issuance.