5 scelini 1971 specimen

Uncommon. While the base P-13 series (1971 Somalia 5 Scellini) was a standard circulation issue, specimen notes (P-13s variant) are inherently scarcer than circulated examples, as they were produced in limited quantities for archival, distribution to banks, and collector purposes only. The 2019 catalogue value of $110 UNC and eBay comparable sales data ($255 for a PMG 68 in 2022) indicate modest collector demand. This represents a genuinely scarce variant rather than a common circulation note, but not rare enough to command premium prices typical of notes with restricted print runs.

Somalia's 1971 banknote series reflects the country's post-independence monetary identity following the 1969 military coup. The imagery—an antelope native to the Horn of Africa and a traditional dhow sailing vessel—connects to Somalia's cultural heritage and maritime history along the Indian Ocean. The bilingual design in Italian and Arabic, coupled with the issuer name in Italian (reflecting colonial administrative legacy), marks a transitional period in Somali national identity during the early years of the Siad Barre regime.

The obverse features a finely engraved Somali antelope (likely a dik-dik or similar species native to the region) depicted in profile facing left, accompanied by a star symbol above. The note employs an elaborate ornamental circular medallion in the center rendered in gold and teal with intricate corner ornaments and decorative border patterns throughout. The reverse presents a traditional Arab dhow under sail on water, rendered with fine hatching and line work, surrounded by matching ornamental borders and corner elements. The color palette of purple-brown, pale green, gold, and teal creates visual depth while maintaining the formal aesthetic expected of central bank currency. Watermark areas are visible as blank circular spaces on both sides.

Front: 'BANCA NAZIONALE SOMALA' (National Bank of Somalia), '5 SCELLINO' (5 Shillings), 'IL GOVERNATORE' (The Governor), 'IL CASSIERE' (The Cashier), 'MOGADISCIO 1971' (Mogadishu 1971), 'SPECIMEN' and 'OF NO VALUE' (specimen markings). Back: '5 SOMALI SHILLINGS', 'الجمهورية الصومالية' (The Somali Republic in Arabic), 'SPECIMEN OF NO VALUE'.

Intaglio engraving (line engraving and steel plate engraving), characteristic of high-security banknote production. The fine line patterns, intricate border work, and detailed portraiture visible throughout confirm professional security printing. Printed by OCV (Orell Füssli Curych/Orell Füssli) without imprint mark, a renowned Swiss security printer. The specimen overprints are applied as additional security measures to prevent circulation.

This is catalogued as Pick P-13s, the 'Specimen' variant of the 1971 Somalia 5 Scellini series. PMG records indicate four variants of the P-13 base number: P-13a, P-13ap1, P-13ap2, and P-13s (this note). The 's' designation denotes specimen status. Identifying characteristics of this variety include: red diagonal 'SPECIMEN' and 'OF NO VALUE' overprints, zero serial numbers (000000), blank watermark areas, and the absence of circulation wear. The note bears the signature titles 'IL GOVERNATORE' and 'IL CASSIERE' at right. Printer mark indicates OCV without imprint.