1944 IRR 5 Rials Bank Melli Pick 39 PMG 63 EPQ Choice Uncirculated Shah Portrait

1944 Iran 5 Rials Bank Melli Pick 39 PMG 63 EPQ Choice Uncirculated Shah Portrait

Offered here is a pleasing Iran, Bank Melli 5 Rials note, cataloged as Pick 39 and certified PMG 63 EPQ Choice Uncirculated. Dated ND (1944) on the holder, this is a classic early Pahlavi-era issue featuring elegant Persian engraving, royal portraiture, and premium originality. With its Exceptional Paper Quality designation, this note is an attractive certified example of mid-20th century Iranian paper money.

In terms of authenticity, the note has been professionally authenticated and graded by PMG (Paper Money Guaranty), one of the most respected services in world currency. The holder identifies the note as Iran, Bank Melli, Pick 39, ND (1944), 5 Rials, with Printer: H&S, Watermark: Imperial Crown, and Signature #1. That certification gives collectors confidence in the note’s genuineness, proper attribution, and preservation.

Historically, this issue belongs to an important period in Iran’s monetary history, when Bank Melli served as the country’s principal issuing authority. Notes from this era reflect a blend of national identity, formal banknote artistry, and royal symbolism associated with the early reign of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi. As a result, this note is both a collectible denomination and a compact historical artifact from wartime-era Iran.

The design is refined and highly collectible. The face features a portrait of the young Shah at right, framed by intricate Persian border ornamentation and a decorative central cartouche in soft green and pink tones. The warm reddish-brown color palette gives the note a classic appearance. On the reverse, an architectural vignette centered on a tall brick tower and arcade adds visual depth and regional character. The noted Imperial Crown watermark is an especially desirable feature, reinforcing both authenticity and the royal theme of the series.

The 5 Rials denomination is a popular type from this series and a strong choice for collectors of Iranian, Middle Eastern, and portrait banknotes. In PMG 63 EPQ, this example offers excellent eye appeal and premium originality, making it a desirable addition to a specialized Iran collection or a broader world paper money set.

Catalog Details:
Country: Iran
Issuer: Bank Melli
Denomination: 5 Rials
Date: ND (1944)
Catalog Number: Pick 39
Printer: H&S
Watermark: Imperial Crown
Signature Variety: Sign. #1
Grade: PMG 63 EPQ Choice Uncirculated

Collector’s Value:
This note offers a strong combination of historical relevance, elegant design, and certified originality. Early Bank Melli issues remain popular with collectors, and a Pick 39 in PMG 63 EPQ is a solid premium-grade example with broad appeal. For collectors of Iran, Pahlavi-era notes, or attractive world paper money, this is a rewarding piece that presents beautifully and carries lasting collector interest.