5 shilin 1975

Common. The 2019 catalog valuation of $50 for UNC condition and consistent eBay sales in the $5–12 range over multiple years indicate robust collector supply. While uncirculated examples command premium pricing relative to circulated grades, this note was produced in substantial quantities and remains readily available in the market. No evidence of restricted print runs, recalls, or scarcity factors exists for this Pick number.

Issued by the Bankiga Qaranka Soomaaliyeed (Central Bank of Somalia) during the 1970s military regime period, this note reflects Somalia's national identity through its choice of wildlife and agricultural imagery. The banana plantation scene on the reverse emphasizes Somalia's economic reliance on agricultural exports during this era, while the zebra motif celebrates the nation's natural heritage and wildlife resources. The 1975 dating coincides with Somalia's economic restructuring efforts in the years following the 1969 military coup.

The obverse displays the national emblem of Somalia—a circular shield containing a five-pointed star—positioned at the left, with the denomination '5' prominently featured in a large ornamental circle at center. Below this sits an engraved vignette of three zebras rendered in fine detail against a savanna landscape, executed in the blue-gray tones characteristic of period security engraving. The reverse showcases an agricultural harvest scene featuring multiple workers engaged in banana plantation work, with tropical foliage and banana plants visible throughout the composition. Both sides employ ornamental geometric border designs with fine dotted patterns and circular security elements positioned in the corners. The color palette—burgundy, cream, gold, and muted blue-gray—creates strong visual distinction while maintaining the formal aesthetic appropriate to currency of the era.

Front side: 'Bankiga Qaranka Soomaaliyeed' (Central Bank of Somalia), '5 Shilin' / '5 Shillings' (denomination in Somali and English), 'Taliyaha' (Governor), 'Lacaghayaha' (Finance/Treasurer), 'Muqdisho 1975' (Mogadishu 1975), 'Keer Warsk Akii Disemmber 1974' (December 1974 reference date). Back side: 'Somali National Bank' (English name of issuing authority), '5 Somali Shillings' / '5 Shillin Soomaali' (denomination in English and Somali). Serial number 286119 and reference prefix J004 appear on front.

Intaglio (steel engraving) printing, evidenced by the fine line work, intricate geometric patterns, and sharp detail reproduction visible throughout both sides. The security printer for variant P-17s is documented as TDLR (Thomas De La Rue), the premier British security printer of the period, which aligns with the professional quality and refinement of the engraved designs. Security features include fine line backgrounds, circular ornamental elements with security circles, and detailed stippled/dotted pattern work typical of De La Rue's output.

This example appears consistent with Pick-17a (5 Shilin = 5/- Shillings). The PMG population report documents variant P-17s with printer TDLR (Thomas De La Rue); this note's engraving quality and design execution are consistent with De La Rue production standards. The date 'Muqdisho 1975' and December 1974 reference confirm the 1975 issue type. Serial number 286119 and prefix J004 should be cross-referenced against known serial ranges if pursuing detailed variety classification, though no major overprint or signature varieties are apparent in the visual analysis.