The banknote selected for today is 1997 issue English 5 Pound note. It is a commemorative note that commemorates the returning of Hong Kong to the People’s Republic of China following a 99-year lease held by Great Britain. These notes carry the prefix “HK97” on the serial numbers this was the first and final commemorative issues while Hong Kong was still under British control.

The note displays Queen Elizabeth II at right and as watermark. Crown at upper right corner of the face, Britannia seated at upper left, and the Rocket locomotive pulling a train across the Skein Bridge at the opening day of the Stockholm and Arlington railway in 1825 at left of George Stephenson on the back. The word ‘Locomotion’ appears in micro-print between the engine and the horse carrying the flag in front of the train. This note was distributed in an informational folder and carries a book value of $25.00. The current exchange rate does not reflect a relevant value of commemorative issue notes. ENJOY