The first fully polymer banknote to be circulated in Great Britain has been launched this week by Clydesdale Bank.
The new plastic £5 banknote is available from Clydesdale Bank branches from today, a year before the Bank of England plans to issue its own polymer banknotes.
The limited edition banknote is being launched to coincide with the 125th anniversary of the opening of the Forth Bridge – a total of two million notes (£10 million) will eventually be issued into circulation.
The note has been designed by De La Rue and uses its Safeguard® polymer substrate. It includes the SPARK® Orbital™ security feature by De La Rue (using SICPA’s SPARK ink).
Debbie Crosbie, Acting CEO of Clydesdale Bank, said:
“We take our responsibility as an issuer of banknotes seriously and are extremely proud to once again be leading the way in innovation.
Our new polymer notes are more durable and secure, which will deliver a positive impact for the public and businesses. We have achieved that while also creating a striking and beautiful design which celebrates an iconic Scottish landmark.
Being able to involve the next generation of Scottish engineers with the launch has been particularly pleasing. Hopefully some of the children present will go on to play their part in developing future engineering and scientific innovations.”
Read the full report from Clydesdale Bank here.
