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5 Pounds Bank of Nova Scotia
| Issuer | Bank of Nova Scotia |
|---|---|
| Year | 1900-1920 |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Size | 185 × 96 mm |
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| Obverse description | Central intaglio vignette of two classical allegorical female figures seated together, one holding a scroll and the other resting on an open book, set against a landscape with rocky cliffs and water. Large ornate guilloche medallions bearing the numeral '5' and 'FIVE' occupy both left and right flanks, with the bank title in elaborate Gothic script arching across the upper portion. The lower panel carries the date, branch designation, and two manuscript signatures above the printed titles 'FOR GENERAL MANAGER' and 'PRESIDENT', all on a warm orange-toned underprint. |
|---|---|
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| Reverse lettering | THE BANK OF NOVA SCOTIA INCORPORATED 1832 KINGSTON JAMAICA FIVE POUNDS |
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| Comments |
The Bank of Nova Scotia was among the earliest Canadian chartered banks to expand aggressively into the Caribbean, opening branches in Jamaica and Cuba before most of its peers had considered foreign operations. This note's pound denomination — rather than dollars — reflects that West Indian branch network, where sterling-based accounting persisted well into the twentieth century alongside dollar-denominated issues.
The American Bank Note Company held the printing contract for much of Nova Scotia's private issue period, and the quality of engraving on this series is noticeably superior to contemporary Dominion of Canada government paper. Charles Archibald served as general manager from 1897 to 1910; the co-signature of N.E. Birch helps narrow the issue window within the stated range.