10 Australian Pounds (1938 – 1952 Series)

The 10 Australian Pounds banknote issued between 1938 and 1952 belongs to Australia’s pre-decimal currency system, used prior to the introduction of the Australian dollar in 1966. Produced by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, this higher-denomination note reflects a period spanning the late interwar years, the Second World War, and the early post-war era. Its detailed engraving and rich colour palette represent the authoritative visual style typical of British Commonwealth banknotes of the mid-20th century.

On the front of the banknote appears a portrait of King George VI, framed within an ornate cartouche at the centre. Fine intaglio-style engraving captures the uniform and facial detail, surrounded by complex guilloché patterns designed to deter counterfeiting. The inscription Commonwealth of Australia runs across the top, while the promise of payment — This note is legal tender for ten pounds — is printed prominently across the centre. Signature panels appear beneath the text, and a large watermark panel occupies the right-hand portion of the design. The denomination £10 is repeated in each corner within elaborate decorative frames for clear identification.

The reverse presents a dramatic pastoral and labour scene, showing figures handling livestock in a structured agricultural setting. The composition symbolises Australia’s rural economy and productivity during the period. The figures and animals are rendered in carefully layered engraved shading, framed by a patterned border that mirrors the complexity of the front design. The dominant red colour scheme distinguishes the note within the pre-decimal series and reinforces its high denomination status.

As a withdrawn pre-decimal issue, the 10 Australian Pounds (1938–1952) is no longer accepted by banks or standard exchange bureaux and is frequently discovered in inherited collections, estate clearances, or long-stored memorabilia. If you hold historic Australian banknotes and want currency buy back, our UK-based service provides a practical solution.

• Indicate the quantity of 10 Australian Pound banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Pre-decimal currencies are commonly refused by high-street providers because they sit outside modern banking systems and clearing processes. We exchange leftover currency for individuals, charities, and businesses throughout the UK, offering a dependable way to convert obsolete foreign banknotes into pounds securely without needing a collector sale or specialist auction route.