The "Father of Railways" Collection

Document a classic era of British engineering and banking with this three-note set of Series E £5 banknotes. Issued in the early 1990s, these notes were the first to reduce the physical size of the fiver, making them more convenient for daily use while introducing advanced security features like the metallic thread and micro-lettering.

Historic & Design Highlights:

• Obverse (Front): Features the mature portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Roger Withington. To the left is an engraving of Britannia, a symbol of the Bank of England's authority since the 17th century.

• Reverse (Back): A stunning tribute to George Stephenson (1781–1848). The design features his portrait alongside his famous "Rocket" locomotive and the Skerne Bridge on the Stockton and Darlington Railway.

• Signatory: All three notes feature the signature of G.E.A. Kentfield (Graham Kentfield), who served as the Chief Cashier of the Bank of England from 1991 to 1998.

• Color Palette: Dominated by turquoise and blue, with vibrant yellow and pink security underprints.

Item Details:

• Issuer: Bank of England.

• Series: Series E (Issued 1990–2003).

• Denomination: Five Pounds (£5).

• Signatory: G.E.A. Kentfield.

• Condition: Choice Uncirculated (UNC) – The notes are in flawless, bank-fresh condition. They feature razor-sharp corners, original paper body, and perfectly vibrant ink. No folds, creases, or handling marks are present.

Collector's Perspective: Collecting these notes by prefix is a great way to study the production runs of the 1990s. This set includes a variety of early and mid-run prefixes (T17, AA84, and DA55), providing a wonderful snapshot of the Kentfield era. Finding uncirculated "Stephensons" is becoming a priority for many, as these were the last paper fivers before the 2002 Elizabeth Fry design.