5 dollars 1964
About This Note
This is a beautifully preserved example of the 1964 Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago 5 Dollar note (Pick P-27c) in uncirculated condition. The note features Queen Elizabeth II in profile on the obverse and the Central Bank building with an agricultural vignette on the reverse, both rendered in crisp green with excellent detail and no signs of circulation. The sharp printing, vibrant colors, and pristine state make this an attractive specimen of Trinidad and Tobago's early post-independence currency.
Common. The 1964 5 Dollar Trinidad and Tobago note (Pick P-27c) was part of a standard circulating series with substantial print runs. Examples are readily available in the collector market, particularly in lower grades. Even in uncirculated condition, this note does not command premium prices typical of scarce or rare issues, indicating robust supply relative to collector demand.
Issued in 1964 following Trinidad and Tobago's independence from British rule, this banknote reflects the nation's transition to sovereignty while retaining the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, signifying continued Commonwealth ties. The reverse design prominently features the Central Bank building—symbolizing the country's new financial independence—alongside agricultural machinery harvesting sugar cane, highlighting the economic importance of the sugar industry to the young nation during this period.
The obverse features a left-facing profile portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in formal mid-20th century dress, positioned centrally with decorative corner ornaments displaying the numeral 5. The left side displays the coat of arms of Trinidad and Tobago, featuring a shield with heraldic elements including a sailing ship, cross, and other national symbols, with the national motto 'Together we aspire' incorporated into the design. The reverse showcases a prominent architectural rendering of the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago headquarters building with regular window patterns, a national flag, and ornamental corner elements. An upper right circular vignette depicts agricultural mechanization, specifically machinery engaged in sugar cane harvesting, emphasizing the nation's primary export industry. Both sides feature ornamental borders with intricate line work and detailed engraving patterns throughout.
Front side: 'CENTRAL BANK OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO' (institutional issuer), '5' and 'FIVE DOLLARS' (denomination), 'ISSUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CENTRAL BANK ACT OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 1964' (legal authority), 'GOVERNOR' (signature designation), 'Together we aspire' (national motto visible on coat of arms), and 'F952011' (serial number). Back side: 'CENTRAL BANK OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO' (institutional issuer) and '$5' (denomination in symbol form).
Intaglio (copperplate) engraving, a traditional security printing technique evident from the sharp line work, fine detail, and dimensional relief of the engraved designs. The intricate borders, decorative patterns, and detailed architectural and heraldic elements are characteristic of high-security banknote production from this era. The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago commissioned established security printers for this issue, typical of Commonwealth currency production in the 1960s.
This note is cataloged as Pick P-27c, identifiable by its Bird of Paradise watermark. The PMG population data indicates four variants for this base Pick number: P-27a, P-27b, P-27c, and P-27s. Distinguishing between P-27a, P-27b, and P-27c variants typically involves detailed examination of signature blocks, serial number prefixes, or subtle printing variations. The observed serial number F952011 and condition grade (UNC) are consistent with P-27c specimens.
