5 dinars 1965 specimen

Uncommon. While the base 5 dinars denomination from 1965 is relatively common in circulated condition, this specific specimen variant (P-64s) is considerably scarcer. Specimen notes represent a small fraction of any issue, produced for distribution to banks and collectors rather than circulation. The 2019 catalog value of $100 UNC and documented eBay sales at $299 (2015) indicate moderate collector demand and limited availability compared to standard circulation issues. Specimen variants typically exist in much smaller quantities than regular currency releases.

This 5 dinar note was issued on June 1, 1965, during the early years of Tunisia's independence (1956) under President Habib Bourguiba, whose portrait appears prominently on the obverse. The reverse imagery celebrates Tunisia's rich cultural heritage, featuring the Roman arch at Sbeitla (ancient Sufetula) and classical mosaic elements representing the nation's Greco-Roman archaeological legacy. The inclusion of both Arabic and French inscriptions reflects Tunisia's bilingual character during this transitional post-colonial period.

The obverse features a formal portrait of President Habib Bourguiba positioned on the right side, rendered in maroon and cream tones with fine engraving detail. On the left, the Sadiki College (a prominent educational institution in Tunis) is depicted with its distinctive minaret and dome, surrounded by ornamental geometric borders in green accents. The reverse showcases classical Tunisian heritage with a woman's profile on the left (representing Tunisia or classical antiquity) adorned with wheat or grain elements, a decorative botanical wreath with fruits and flowers (grapes, pomegranates, berries) in multicolor, and the central focal point: the Roman triumphal arch at Sbeitla rendered in red-brown stonework. A classical theatrical mask element appears in the lower right corner. Large denomination numerals '5' appear in all corners with fine line engraving patterns throughout providing security detail.

FRONT SIDE: 'البنك المركزي التونسي' (Central Bank of Tunisia), 'خمسة دنانير' (Five dinars), 'وزارة المالية بموجب قانون الاصدار' (Ministry of Finance by decree pursuant to the issuance law), 'حافظ الخزانة' (Keeper of the Treasury), '1-6-1965' (June 1, 1965), '000000' (specimen serial number), 'SPECIMEN' (English overprint), '5' (denomination numeral). BACK SIDE: 'BANQUE CENTRALE DE TUNISIE' (Central Bank of Tunisia in French), 'CINQ' (Five in French), 'CINCO' (Five in Spanish), 'DINARS' (Dinars), '5' (denomination numeral), 'SPECIMEN' (English overprint).

This note was produced using intaglio (recess engraving) printing, evidenced by the fine line work, detailed portrait rendering, complex geometric border patterns, and crisp security features visible throughout both sides. The multicolor printing with precise color registration indicates professional security printing by the Banque Centrale de Tunisie's authorized printer. The watermark bearing Habib Bourguiba's image was created using traditional watermarking techniques during paper manufacture.

This is the specimen variety (P-64s) of the Pick 64 5 dinars note, distinguished by the red 'SPECIMEN' diagonal overprint and punch holes typical of specimen banknotes. The PMG population report indicates P-64a as the standard variety, with this specimen variant representing a distinct issue type. Serial number 000000 is consistent with specimen production standards. The note's pristine condition with no evidence of circulation wear confirms its specimen status and handling.