old fivers

[funkymoped]

even though they are no longer lagal tender, can we still get �5 exchange for them from the banks ?

the promise made by the bank of england is " i promise to pay the bearer on demand, the sum of �5" (i think) printed on each bank note.

[parkesquay]

I think that it depends on how old they are. Only last week I was given a �5 in my change which was subsequently refused at another outlet. Apparently the �5 symbol has to be large in size whereas I had the smaller symbol. Went into a bank and they changed it OK.

[mkt]

post offices, banks and building societies can change them at their own discretion. You'll find that most (particularly banks) will change them for you but it has to be the most recent 'retired' note. ie the one directly preceding the current issue.

Other than that The Bank of England in London will accept and change ANY retired Bank of England note. If you can't get there in person you can mail them but this is obviously at your own risk

[spudqueen]

When I worked for a bank a few years back we accepted all old notes which we then sent on to the Bank of England. You may have to have an account with them though.

[rugeleyboy]

i remember the really old one's that made my hands look small!! but i was only 5 at the time!

[Loosehead]

As above the bank of England will exchange any note they ever issued, they keep the promise! Other banks are under no obligation but may well also accept them.