Security Features

£50 Note (Sir John Houblon)

Feel of the paperFeel of the paper - banknotes are printed on special paper that gives them their unique feel.
Raised PrintRaised print - this is used on some parts of the note. By running your finger across the note you can feel raised print in some areas, such as the words ‘Bank of England’ on the front of the note.
Metallic ThreadMetallic thread - the thread is embedded in the paper in every banknote. This appears as silver dashes on the front of the £50 note. If you hold the note up to the light, the metallic thread appears as a continuous dark line.
WatermarkWatermark - hold the note up to the light and you will see an image of the Queen’s portrait. This can also be viewed from the back of the note.
Quality of the printing - the printed lines and colours on banknotes are sharp, clear and free from smudges or blurred edges.

Foil PatchFoil patch - the £50 note has a foil patch on the front near the portrait of the Queen. This shows a reflective rose and medallion. This design of foil patch is unique to the £50 note.

Key Resources

 Know Your Banknotes Leaflet
Provides a guide to the key recognition and security features on banknotes.
Download PDF (811k)

 

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