5 Malaysian Ringgit (1st series)

The 5 Malaysian Ringgit First Series banknote was issued by Bank Negara Malaysia during the early years of the country’s post-independence currency system. This series marked Malaysia’s transition to a distinct national identity following the replacement of the Malaya and British Borneo dollar, and it represents one of the earliest unified banknote designs used across Malaysia.

The front of the banknote features a formal portrait of Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s first Yang di-Pertuan Agong, wearing traditional royal attire. The portrait is set against an intricate background of fine guilloche patterns designed to deter counterfeiting. The denomination “LIMA RINGGIT” is clearly printed, along with the issuing authority “Bank Negara Malaysia,” serial numbers, and an original Governor’s signature. The overall colour scheme is predominantly green, a common security choice for mid-20th-century banknotes.

The reverse of the note is highly decorative, displaying symmetrical ornamental patterns with a central medallion containing a stylised deer motif, an emblem closely associated with Bank Negara Malaysia during this period. Surrounding geometric rosettes and repeating motifs fill the design, with the denomination “$5” prominently displayed in multiple corners. The detailed engraving reflects the printing standards of the era and the emphasis on visual complexity for security.

The 1st series Malaysian Ringgit banknotes have long since been withdrawn from circulation and replaced by later series featuring updated security features and modern designs. As a result, these notes are no longer accepted by banks for everyday use, but they remain commonly found in private collections or held as keepsakes.

• Indicate the quantity of 5 Malaysian Ringgit banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

We provide a secure UK-based service for exchanging withdrawn and non-circulating Malaysian banknotes, including early Ringgit series that are no longer usable as currency. Many high-street banks will not accept these older notes, but our specialist service allows you to convert them quickly and securely.

Rarer banknotes may take longer than 5 days due to additional authenticity checks.