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The Rhodesia 5 Dollars 1979 banknote, cataloged as Pick #40, is a historically significant currency issued during the final year of the unrecognized state of Rhodesia. Produced under the authority of the Reserve Bank of Rhodesia, this note represents the last phase of Rhodesian monetary production before the country’s transition to Zimbabwe in 1980. The note was introduced at a time of political uncertainty, social unrest, and economic sanctions, reflecting a government attempting to maintain institutional continuity amidst impending transformation. In Uncirculated (UNC) condition, the note retains its full original qualities, including sharp corners, crisp paper, and vibrant ink coloration, with no folds, stains, or handling wear, making it highly desirable for collectors of pre-Zimbabwean African currency.
Rhodesia declared unilateral independence from Britain in 1965, and its currency system evolved over the next decade in response to international isolation. The Rhodesian dollar, introduced in 1970, replaced the Rhodesian pound at a 2:1 exchange rate and was further divided into cents. The 5 Dollar denomination issued in 1979 was a high-value note at the time, used predominantly in larger transactions. It was part of the second and final Rhodesian dollar series, issued amid the backdrop of the Lancaster House negotiations and increasing global pressure for majority rule. With the establishment of Zimbabwe in 1980, all Rhodesian notes, including the 5 Dollar issue, were withdrawn from circulation and replaced by the new Zimbabwean dollar, giving this note historical and collectible significance as one of the last of its kind.
The obverse of the 5 Dollar note features a left-facing portrait of Cecil John Rhodes, the British colonialist, entrepreneur, and namesake of the former Rhodesia. Rendered in fine engraved detail, Rhodes is presented in a dignified, formal pose, embodying the colonial narrative of leadership and progress. The portrait is enclosed in a decorative frame with guilloché patterns and security linework surrounding it. The primary color scheme on the obverse includes muted blue, violet, and gray-green tones that provide an elegant and subdued aesthetic. The denomination “5” appears in each corner, while the central inscription reads “RESERVE BANK OF RHODESIA” along the top and “FIVE DOLLARS” at the bottom center. Serial numbers appear in the top right and bottom left corners, printed in black ink.
Additional design elements on the obverse include microtext lines, geometric backgrounds, and color-shifting patterns that enhance anti-counterfeit measures. Two authorized signatures are present—those of the Reserve Bank’s Governor and a senior official—printed near the bottom of the note in blue-black ink. The watermark of Cecil Rhodes is embedded in the paper to the right of the portrait and is visible when the note is held up to the light. In UNC condition, these intricate design features are preserved in flawless detail, with no fading, discoloration, or paper disruption, allowing a clear view of the note’s full visual and technical sophistication.
The reverse of the 5 Dollar note presents a vivid and detailed depiction of Victoria Falls, one of Africa’s most iconic natural landmarks, located on the Zambezi River between modern-day Zimbabwe and Zambia. Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders,” the falls are shown from a panoramic angle, with cascading water flowing over cliffs into a deep gorge below. The scene includes vegetation in the foreground and clouds of mist rising from the gorge, emphasizing the power and majesty of the falls. The artwork is executed with precise engraving, capturing both natural realism and artistic depth.
The reverse design employs a complementary palette of soft green, deep blue, and subtle gray to enhance the naturalistic theme. “RESERVE BANK OF RHODESIA” and “FIVE DOLLARS” are repeated across the top and bottom, respectively, while the denomination “5” appears in all corners. Fine linework, shading techniques, and guilloché elements frame the central image, providing both decorative appeal and anti-forgery protection. In uncirculated condition, the reverse remains visually stunning, with strong ink contrast and unblemished paper, ensuring its enduring collector value.
Printed by Bradbury Wilkinson and Company in the United Kingdom, the 1979 Rhodesia 5 Dollar note was produced with high standards of banknote craftsmanship. Security features include a clear watermark of Cecil Rhodes, embedded security fibers, raised intaglio printing on the portrait and text, and complex background designs that are difficult to replicate. These elements were designed to maintain currency integrity in an era when Rhodesia faced increasing economic sabotage and counterfeiting threats. In its UNC state, the note's security features function perfectly, offering both visual appeal and collectible assurance.
The 5 Dollar denomination was a significant unit of currency, representing a considerable value during the late Rhodesian period. With ongoing hyperinflation and currency instability that would later define Zimbabwe’s economy, the 1979 issue reflects the last attempt by the Rhodesian regime to maintain a credible monetary system. Despite political upheaval and military conflict, the Reserve Bank continued issuing notes with consistency and professionalism. However, the lack of international recognition and ongoing guerilla warfare created a tenuous monetary environment, and these notes were ultimately short-lived in daily circulation.
From a numismatic standpoint, the 1979 5 Dollar note is sought after not only for its scarcity but also for its exceptional engraving, thematic content, and transitional importance. It bridges the colonial iconography of the Rhodes era with the natural beauty and economic potential symbolized by Victoria Falls. As a piece of monetary and historical ephemera, it serves as a visual record of a state that ceased to exist, replaced by a sovereign African republic. Collectors prize UNC examples for their preservation of these narrative elements, as well as for the increasingly limited supply of high-grade Rhodesian banknotes due to their withdrawal and destruction after 1980.
In summary, the Rhodesia 5 Dollars 1979 P#40 UNC banknote is a powerful artifact of late 20th-century African history. Its uncirculated condition preserves every detail of its design, from the engraved portrait of Cecil Rhodes to the sweeping depiction of Victoria Falls. It reflects the final assertion of a regime on the brink of dissolution, making it a compelling item for collectors of African, colonial, and transition-era currency. Its balance of artistic craftsmanship, historical weight, and excellent preservation ensures its place as a key highlight in any advanced numismatic collection.