1944 IRR 5 Rials Bank Melli Pick 39 PMG 65 EPQ Gem Uncirculated Shah Portrait Rare

1944 Iran 5 Rials Bank Melli Pick 39 PMG 65 EPQ Gem Uncirculated Shah Portrait Rare

Offered here is a beautiful Iran, Bank Melli 5 Rials note, cataloged as Pick 39 and certified PMG 65 EPQ Gem Uncirculated. Dated ND (1944) on the holder, this is a highly desirable mid-20th century Iranian issue that combines elegant Persian engraving, royal portraiture, and premium certified quality. With its strong eye appeal and Exceptional Paper Quality designation, this note is an excellent example of early modern Iranian paper money.

In terms of authenticity, the note has been professionally authenticated and encapsulated by PMG (Paper Money Guaranty), one of the most respected grading 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 proper attribution, originality, and preservation.

Historically, this issue belongs to an important era in Iran’s monetary development, when Bank Melli served as the country’s principal issuing authority. Notes from this period reflect a blend of national identity, royal symbolism, and formal banknote artistry. The presence of the young Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi on the face gives the piece added historic significance, connecting it directly to the early Pahlavi period and to the transformation of Iran’s financial and political institutions during the 1940s.

The design is refined and highly collectible. The face displays a portrait of the Shah at right, framed by intricate Persian ornamentation and a beautifully detailed central cartouche. The reddish-brown color scheme gives the note a warm, classic appearance, while the reverse features an architectural vignette centered on a tall brick tower and arcade structure, adding visual depth and regional character. The noted Imperial Crown watermark is an especially attractive feature for collectors, reinforcing both authenticity and the royal imagery of the series.

The 5 Rials denomination is a classic type from this era and an appealing format for collectors of Iranian, Middle Eastern, and portrait banknotes. In PMG 65 EPQ, this example stands at a premium grade level, making it a strong choice for collectors seeking quality along with historical substance.

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 65 EPQ Gem Uncirculated

Collector’s Value:
This note offers an excellent combination of premium certification, royal-era historical interest, and attractive Persian design. Early Bank Melli issues are widely collected, and a Pick 39 in PMG 65 EPQ is a strong premium-grade example with broad appeal. For collectors of Iran, portrait notes, or high-grade world paper money, this is a handsome and desirable addition that presents beautifully in any collection.