Blog — Bank of England

Today the Bank of England has released a brand new £5 note - the first ever polymer (or "plastic") banknote they have issued. Polymer notes are made from a flexible plastic, which is resistant to dirt and water, making them considerably more durable. Each note is expected to last around five years - two and a half times longer than their paper counterparts.  The new banknote itself features a familiar portrait of much-loved Prime Minister Winston Churchill along with a number of new security features, including a see-through window and foil Elizabeth Tower - which is gold on the front and...