1954 Canada $5 Banknote – BCS VF25 Very Fine “Devil’s Face” (Beattie–Coyne, BC-31b)

1954 Canada $5 Banknote – BCS VF25 Very Fine “Devil’s Face” (Beattie–Coyne, BC-31b)
CA$165.00

This 1954 Canada $5 “Devil’s Face” banknote, graded BCS VF25 (Very Fine), is a classic and highly collectible example from one of Canada’s most famous banknote varieties. Issued by the Bank of Canada and catalogued as BC-31b, this note belongs to the first 1954 Canadian banknote series, renowned for its controversial portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

Nicknamed the “Devil’s Face” variety, early printings revealed what appeared to be a grinning face hidden in the Queen’s hair near her ear—prompting public concern and a swift redesign. As a result, Devil’s Face notes were quickly withdrawn and replaced, making surviving examples especially desirable among collectors.

This note features the Beattie–Coyne signature combination and has been professionally graded by Banknote Certification Service. In Very Fine 25 condition, the note shows moderate circulation with honest wear, light folds, and clear creases, while retaining strong colour, bold serial numbers, and well-defined design elements.

The reverse displays the iconic Canadian wilderness scene—a flowing river framed by dense evergreen forest—one of the most admired vignettes in Canadian paper money. Despite circulation, this example remains visually attractive and well-balanced, making it an excellent mid-grade representative of this historic issue.

A cornerstone of any Canadian paper money collection, the 1954 $5 Devil’s Face remains one of the most widely recognized and discussed varieties in Canadian numismatics.

Key Details:

  • Country: Canada

  • Year: 1954

  • Denomination: $5 Dollars

  • Series: 1954 Bank of Canada

  • Variety: Devil’s Face

  • Catalogue No.: BC-31b

  • Signatures: Beattie – Coyne

  • Grade: BCS VF25 (Very Fine)

  • Grading Service: Banknote Certification Service