5 Shillings MLT Banknote (George V Issue) 1939

5 Shillings Pound / Lira (Issued 1939)

In 1939, as Europe descended into the Second World War, Malta remained under British colonial governance with King George V as the reigning monarch. The island’s financial system operated under the authority of the Government of Malta, which issued this 5 Shillings banknote to facilitate commerce during a period of mounting international tension. This note represents a crucial moment in Malta’s monetary history, when the archipelago’s economy was still denominated in pounds and shillings under the sterling system. The 1939 issue reflected both the political stability of the British Empire and the economic structures that would soon be tested by global conflict.

On the front, the banknote displays the formal inscription “THE GOVERNMENT OF MALTA” printed in burgundy across the upper border. The denomination “5/-” appears in green numerals within decorative corner medallions at both left and right edges. A formal portrait of King George V occupies the right side of the note in green profile engraving, rendered with meticulous detail showing the elderly monarch’s distinctive features and formal attire. The central focus features a bold red rectangular cartouche containing the text “FIVE SHILLINGS” in white capital letters, below which the legal declaration reads “HEREBY DECLARES THIS NOTE TO BE LEGAL TENDER FOR PAYMENTS” with additional text stating “NOT EXCEEDING 5/-“. The banknote’s serial number A270171 appears twice in blue ink, positioned at the top left and bottom right corners. Handwritten signatures of authorised officials are visible in the lower portion, dated 1939. The background displays an intricate geometric guilloché pattern in pale pink and green, creating a textured security foundation throughout the design. The entire composition is bordered by ornamental frames in green, with fine line work creating a professional and authoritative appearance befitting government-issued currency.

The reverse side is executed in a plain cream coloured paper stock, displaying only the natural aging characteristics and minor surface variations consistent with a banknote from 1939. The paper shows subtle discolouration and age marks typical of currency that has circulated and been preserved for over eight decades. No additional imagery, text, or security printing is present on the reverse face, reflecting the simpler design conventions of Malta’s pre-war banknote production. The plain back design emphasises the security and authenticity of the front face’s detailed engraving and portrait work.

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