10 Australian Shillings (1913 – 1918 Arms Series) Half Sovereign

The 10 Australian Shillings Half Sovereign banknote of the 1913–1918 Arms Series belongs to the first generation of Commonwealth-issued paper money introduced after Australia unified its national currency system. Equivalent to half a pound, this denomination was widely used in everyday commerce while still carrying the same intricate engraving and formal government styling seen across higher-value notes. Printed by the Australian Note Printing Branch, it reflects both practical circulation use and the early Commonwealth’s desire for a recognisable national currency.

On the front of the banknote, the title Commonwealth of Australia Australian Note appears across the top above the promise that the Treasurer will pay the bearer ten shillings in gold coin on demand. At the left is the Australian Coat of Arms within an oval frame, balanced by a denomination panel reading Ten Shillings on the right. Serial numbers appear in matching positions across the upper field, and the signatures of issuing officials sit along the lower margin. Fine guilloché patterns fill the background in layered blue-green tones, providing both ornamentation and security against reproduction.

The reverse features a detailed engraved dam and flowing water landscape framed by ornate scrollwork. The scene conveys development and infrastructure in early twentieth-century Australia, rendered with fine tonal shading. The denomination appears repeatedly along the sides and within decorative panels, while a patterned text background further complicates counterfeiting attempts. The symmetrical layout and delicate line engraving are characteristic of early Commonwealth banknote production.

As an obsolete pre-decimal denomination, the 10 Australian Shillings Half Sovereign (1913–1918) is no longer accepted by banks or exchange bureaux and is typically found in inherited collections or historic documents. If you want to exchange foreign coins, our UK-based service provides a simple alternative.

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

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Historic denominations such as half sovereign notes fall outside modern banking exchange systems, meaning traditional providers cannot process them. We exchange leftover currency for individuals, charities, and businesses across the UK, offering a secure and trusted way to convert obsolete foreign banknotes into pounds instead of leaving them unused.