Northern Ireland Banknotes

Banknotes issued by Northern Irish banks are the recognised currency in Northern Ireland, although they are not legal tender. They are always accepted by traders in Northern Ireland, and are usually accepted elsewhere in the United Kingdom. They are promissory notes issued in pounds sterling and may be used for cash transactions anywhere in the United Kingdom. However, they are rarely seen outside of Northern Ireland. In England and Wales, although they might be accepted by any shop, they are often not accepted without explanation, clearing banks and building societies will accept them. Northern Irish pound sterling banknotes should not be confused with the Irish pound (or punt), the former currency of the Republic of Ireland, which was replaced by the euro in 2002.

In 1929, six banks began issuing sterling notes for circulation in Northern Ireland. These were Bank of Ireland, Belfast Banking Company, National Bank, Northern Bank, Provincial Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank.