1961 Norges Bank 5 Fem Kroner Banknote

This is an authentic 5 Norwegian Kroner (Fem Kroner) banknote issued by Norges Bank, dated 1961. The note features a predominantly blue and grey color scheme printed on fiber-based currency paper. The obverse side prominently displays a portrait of Fridtjof Nansen, the famous Norwegian explorer and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, set within an oval frame on the left. Below the portrait is the Norwegian coat of arms featuring a lion with an axe. The central text identifies the issuing authority as 'NORGES BANK' above the large numeral '5' and the denomination 'FEM KRONER'. The year '1961' is printed in the upper right corner, and a serial number 'I. 4356345' is located at the bottom right. The banknote shows significant signs of circulation and wear, including heavy vertical and horizontal creasing particularly in the center, blunted corners, and general paper softening. There is visible discoloration and darkening along the edges and fold lines from handling. No major tears or holes are immediately visible, but the structural integrity is weakened by the heavy folds. This specific design belongs to the Series IV notes printed in Norway during the mid-20th century, characterized by classic fine-line engraving and geometric border patterns.