Hi Brent,
As you are probably aware of, the $5 bank note changes hands more often than higher denomination notes and is therefore more prone to wear and tear. In an effort to extend the note’s durability and its current lifespan of 1 to 2 years, the Bank decided to print the upgraded $5 note using a slightly thicker paper, and to apply a varnish coating over the entire surface of the note.
The Bank of Canada is assessing how the substrate improvements contribute to note-life over a two year period. To that effect, a number of $5 notes printed on both standard and heavier weight paper, and with and without varnish, have been released into circulation. The Bank does not release information on the serial numbers involved.
Regards,
Sylvie Dionne
Bank Note Communication and Compliance Team
Bank of Canada
(613) 782-7959
Fax: (613) 782-7533
Toll free: 1-888-513-8212
sdionne@bankofcanada.ca
Can anyone say "interesting"?
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BWJM, F.O.N.A.
Life Member of CPMS, RCNA, ONA, ANA, IBNS, WCS.
President, IBNS Ontario Chapter.
Treasurer, Waterloo Coin Society.
Show Chair, Cambridge Coin Show.
Fellow of the Ontario Numismatic Association.
