1 Australian Pound (1913 – 1918 Arms Series)

The 1 Australian Pound banknote of the 1913–1918 Arms Series represents one of the earliest nationally issued paper currencies of the Commonwealth of Australia, produced soon after federation. Printed by the Australian Note Printing Branch, the design reflects a young nation establishing monetary independence while still retaining traditional British engraving influences. The note combines formal heraldry, detailed ornamentation, and narrative imagery in a style typical of early 20th-century banknote production.

On the front of the banknote, the title Commonwealth of Australia Australian Note spans the upper section above the formal promise to pay one pound. At the centre sits the Australian Coat of Arms, surrounded by layered guilloché security patterns and decorative framing. Serial numbers appear in red on both sides, and the denomination One Pound is repeated in structured panels at the edges for clarity. The layout is symmetrical and authoritative, reflecting the government-backed status of the newly unified national currency.

The reverse presents a detailed mining scene within an ornate central vignette. Workers operate drilling equipment in a rugged landscape, symbolising industry and resource development in early Australia. The imagery is enclosed by elaborate scrollwork and dense line engraving that extends across the full width of the note. The blue colour palette highlights shading depth while providing protection against counterfeiting through intricate pattern repetition.

As an obsolete historic issue, the 1 Australian Pound (1913–1918 Arms Series) is no longer exchangeable at banks or high-street bureaux and is typically found in collections, inherited documents, or early financial records. If you would like to exchange foreign coins, our UK-based service provides a practical alternative.

• Indicate the quantity of 1 Australian Pound banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Very early banknotes like this sit entirely outside modern banking exchange systems, leaving many owners unsure how to convert them. We exchange leftover currency for individuals, charities, and businesses across the UK, providing a trusted way to turn historic foreign banknotes into pounds securely when conventional providers cannot assist.