New RBS 50 note enters circulation celebrating ospreys and Flora Stevenson

Customers will be able to withdraw one from branches across Scotland

The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS)’s new £50 polymer notes have entered circulation at a number of branches across the country.

As part of the bank’s Fabric of Nature (FON) series, the note celebrates the protected Scottish Osprey and the life of Scottish education pioneer Flora Stevenson.

Ms Stevenson will feature in an interactive “selfie” mural at the bank’s refurbished offices on George Street, Edinburgh, to celebrate the release of the note on Wednesday.

The DeLaRue-manufactured note will last at least two-and-a-half times longer than its paper predecessor.

Malcolm Buchanan, chairman of the bank’s Scotland Board, said: “Royal Bank of Scotland has been issuing banknotes since 1727 and they play an important part in our 300-year history but we feel that the value is more than just the portrait and pictures printed on the notes.

“It is a commemoration that lives in people’s pockets and offer the chance to celebrate and remember those who have helped shape our society and the communities that the bank serves.

“Flora Stevenson’s legacy touches many aspects of Scottish life that our nation can be proud of: education, commitment, dedication and creating opportunity.

“Throughout our long history Royal Bank of Scotland has embraced new technologies to improve how we serve our customers but our bank notes have remained an important part of our everyday life throughout that time.

“Our new polymer £50, like all of our FON series, will continue to play that role for years to come.”

Published: 18/08/2021 by Radio NewsHub