2018-07-02 Mon

After the end of the great World War II in 1945, France, Britain, the United States and Russia agreed at the Potsdam Conference to split Germany into four occupation zones. The British area was occupied by the 21st Army Group that was collectively known as the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR). The most challenging job that remained post-war was to reassemble Germany's basic infrastructure and cope with the population on the brink of starvation.

To handle this, the BAOR that operated as a country within a country, required a monetary system that would function to serve the needs of the occupying forces. As the war that devastated the economy, a severely problematic black market trade and severe inflation were plaguing the country.

To overcome existing and potential monetary problems, the military authorities were given permission to issue special "military currency". This British Military currency was to function alongside the local currency issued by the local authorities.

The first series of notes was issued in 1946 and obviously has no series indication. The smallest denomination was 3 pence and the highest was 1 Pound. Later on, a second edition was made to replace this one.

The note we are discussing today was issued in the year 1962. The Note Specifications are as follows:

Obverse: Denominational value “5 P” is seen on all corners with a large one to the left with the words “6th series” over it. Value of the banknote “Five New Pence” is in the centre with “British Armed Forces” at the top. Texts “Issued By Command of the Defence Council” at the bottom with “Special Voucher” on the left and right borders.

Reverse: This blue, red, and green coloured note have the words “Five New Pence” is in the centre with denominational value “5 P” is seen on all corners with a large one in top right and bottom left corners. Complex lined patterned design.

Image Courtesy: Mintage World