1944 IRR 5 Rials Bank Melli Pick 39 PMG 64 EPQ Choice Uncirculated Shah Portrait Rare

1944 Iran 5 Rials Bank Melli Pick 39 PMG 64 EPQ Choice Uncirculated Shah Portrait Rare

Offered here is an attractive Iran, Bank Melli 5 Rials note, cataloged as Pick 39 and certified PMG 64 EPQ Choice Uncirculated. Dated ND (1944) on the holder, this is a classic early Pahlavi-era issue with strong eye appeal, elegant Persian styling, and premium originality. With its Exceptional Paper Quality designation, this note is a desirable 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 trusted names in world currency certification. 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 attribution provides collectors with confidence in the note’s genuineness, catalog status, and preservation.

Historically, this issue comes from an important period in Iran’s monetary development, when Bank Melli served as the country’s principal issuing authority. Notes of this era reflect a blend of national identity, formal banknote engraving, and royal symbolism associated with the early reign of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi. As such, this 5 Rials note is not only a collectible denomination but also a compact historical artifact from wartime-era Iran.

The design is especially appealing. The face features a portrait of the young Shah at right, framed by intricate Persian border work and a decorative central cartouche in soft green and pink tones. The reddish-brown overall palette gives the note a refined and classic appearance. On the reverse, an architectural vignette with a prominent brick tower and arcade adds balance and visual depth, while the noted Imperial Crown watermark enhances both the authenticity and the royal theme of the issue.

The 5 Rials denomination is one of the most collected types from this series, offering an accessible yet historically important example of early modern Iranian currency. In PMG 64 EPQ, this piece stands as a premium-quality note with strong collector appeal for those building an Iran type set, a Middle East collection, or a broader world banknote holding focused on portrait issues.

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 64 EPQ Choice Uncirculated

Collector’s Value:
This note offers a fine combination of historical relevance, royal portrait design, and premium certified originality. Early Bank Melli issues remain popular with collectors, and a Pick 39 in PMG 64 EPQ is an especially appealing example with strong display value. For collectors of Iran, Pahlavi-era notes, or attractive high-grade world paper money, this is a solid and desirable piece with lasting collector interest.