5 Shillings JMD #669

Front

Queen Elizabeth II (1926–2022), Queen of Jamaica and other Commonwealth realms from 1952 to 2022. This note was issued during the early years of her reign, when Jamaica was still transitioning from colonial currency to decimal coinage. The front features decorative guilloché patterns, the denomination 'CINQUECENTO LIRE' in large letters, and ornate baroque scrollwork with allegorical figures at left representing the Bank of Italy's authority.

Back

The Jamaican coat of arms featuring the national motto 'Out of Many, One People', flanked by two Taino figures (representing Jamaica's indigenous heritage), a crocodile and pineapples. The shield displays a red cross with five golden pineapples and the Royal Crest with the British lion above. Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II at left, with the inscription 'BANK OF JAMAICA' and denomination 'FIVE SHILLINGS'. Printed by Thomas De La Rue & Company, Limited as noted at bottom.

History

This 5 shillings note was issued under the Bank of Jamaica Law 1960, which established the Bank of Jamaica as the island's central bank following independence preparations. The shilling currency system was used in Jamaica from 1840 to 1969, when it was replaced by the decimal Jamaican dollar at a rate of 10 shillings = 1 dollar. This series, printed by De La Rue, features Queen Elizabeth II and represents Jamaica's status as a Commonwealth realm. The note was withdrawn from circulation in 1969 during the currency decimalization. The signature is that of G.A. Brown, who served as Acting Governor during this transitional period. Serial prefix 'FM' indicates a specific print run within the series.