5 Pounds / Lirai / Lira CYP Banknote (1963-2005 Central Bank of Cyprus Issue) 1966-1976

5 Pounds / Lirai / L Cypriot Pound (Issued 1966-1976)

The Central Bank of Cyprus, established in 1963, undertook the responsibility of issuing currency for the newly independent Republic of Cyprus during a period of significant economic development and nation-building. This five pound banknote, released during the formative decade of 1966 to 1976, served as a principal denomination within the Cypriot monetary system and represented the bank’s commitment to establishing a stable, internationally recognised currency. The note’s design reflects the aesthetic standards and security considerations of mid-twentieth century central banking, whilst the dual language presentation in Greek and Turkish honoured the bicommunal character of the Cypriot state during this period.

On the front, the banknote displays a sophisticated two-colour design in shades of blue and tan, with the denomination prominently featured in the centre reading “ΠΕΝΤΕ ΛΙΡΑΙ” in Greek and “BES LIRA” in Turkish. The top of the note bears the trilingual header “ΚΕΝΤΡΙΚΗ ΤΡΑΠΕΖΑ ΚΥΠΡΗΣ MERKEZ BANKASI” in Greek and Turkish respectively, identifying the Central Bank of Cyprus as the issuing authority. Two decorative circular medallions occupy the left and right sides of the obverse, both rendered with intricate concentric guilloché patterns in deep blue ink. The left medallion contains ornamental detailing whilst the right features the heraldic shield of Cyprus, enclosed within an elaborate circular border. The serial number “Σ 335450” appears in two locations on the obverse, utilising Greek numerals on the left side and standard format on the right. A continuous geometric border pattern runs horizontally across the base of the note, creating a frame of interlocking diamond or basketweave motifs. The overall engraving quality demonstrates meticulous craftsmanship with fine line work throughout the design elements.

The reverse of the banknote presents a predominantly pale blue and cream colour scheme with ornamental design elements arranged across the surface. The text “Central Bank of Cyprus” appears prominently in the upper portion, accompanied by decorative floral and botanical elements rendered in light blue tones. The denomination “Five Pounds” is clearly visible in English text on the lower left section of the reverse. The right side of the reverse features intricate decorative patterns including what appear to be stylised bird motifs and geometric ornamental designs characteristic of traditional Cypriot artistic influences. A dotted border pattern frames the entire reverse design, maintaining visual consistency with the banknote’s security considerations. The background exhibits fine tonal variations and subtle pattern work intended to prevent counterfeiting, with the overall composition demonstrating the classical approach to central bank note design during the 1960s and 1970s.

Exchange foreign coins and notes with no fuss: Webuyallcurrency.com accepts this 5 Pounds Cypriot banknote and other old or withdrawn Cypriot Pounds banknotes, paying out for everything together in a single transaction.

• Indicate the quantity of 5 Pounds / Lirai / L Cypriot Pound banknotes you want to exchange
• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button
• Your online account now shows the exchange value

If you have leftover currency to exchange, Webuyallcurrency.com accepts Cypriot Pounds banknotes and a wide range of other foreign coins and notes, paying out for the lot in a single straightforward transaction.