5 Chinese Yuan Banknote (1960)

The Chinese 5 Yuan banknote issued in 1960 forms part of the third series of Renminbi introduced by the People’s Bank of China during a period of rapid industrial and economic change. These notes were designed to reflect socialist progress and national development and are now considered withdrawn historic currency rather than everyday money.

This 5 Yuan banknote is printed using multi-coloured inks on patterned paper typical of mid-20th-century Chinese banknote production. The design incorporates complex geometric borders, floral motifs and finely detailed engraving, all intended to reduce counterfeiting while reinforcing state symbolism. Although once legal tender, this series has long since been withdrawn from circulation and replaced by later Renminbi issues.

On the obverse of the banknote is the national emblem of the People’s Republic of China, centrally positioned and surrounded by ornate scrollwork and decorative elements. Multilingual text appears beneath the emblem, reflecting China’s recognition of its ethnic diversity during this period. The denomination is clearly displayed in Chinese characters and Arabic numerals.

The reverse of the note features an industrial scene showing workers operating large-scale machinery within a factory setting. This imagery reflects the political and economic priorities of the era, highlighting industrialisation, collective labour and national self-reliance. The denomination “Five Jiao / Five Yuan” is prominently displayed alongside detailed ornamental borders.

While these 1960-issued notes are no longer accepted for circulation within China, they remain of interest to collectors and can still be exchanged through specialist currency services that handle withdrawn and legacy banknotes.

• Indicate the quantity of 5 Chinese Yuan banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

If you are looking to exchange old or withdrawn Chinese banknotes, we provide a secure UK-based service specialising in historic and discontinued Renminbi issues. Many banks no longer accept older Chinese currency, particularly pre-1990s series, but we regularly process these notes for individuals, charities and organisations.

For higher-value or historic transactions, additional verification and identification may be required to comply with Anti-Money Laundering Regulations (AMLR).