10 Australian Shillings (1938 – 1952 Series)

The 10 Australian Shillings banknote issued between 1938 and 1952 belongs to Australia’s historic pre-decimal monetary system, used before the country adopted decimal currency in 1966. Produced by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, the note reflects the traditional British Commonwealth banknote style of the mid-20th century, characterised by dense ornamental engraving, formal typography, and symbolic allegorical imagery.

On the front of the banknote appears a portrait of King George VI within an oval frame at the right-hand side of the design. The portrait is finely engraved with layered shading to define the facial features and uniform. The inscription Commonwealth of Australia runs prominently across the upper margin, while the central text reads This note is legal tender for ten shillings in the Commonwealth and in all territories under the control of the Commonwealth. Signature panels for issuing officials appear below, and a large blank watermark panel occupies the left side as a key security feature. The denomination “10/-” is repeated within decorative frames for clear recognition.

The reverse presents a classical manufacturing scene showing workers engaged in industrial production, symbolising Australia’s economic development during the period. The figures and machinery are rendered in precise engraved linework, surrounded by intricate patterned borders that mirror the structure of the front design. The red monochrome colour scheme emphasises engraving detail rather than colour variation, a typical anti-counterfeit approach of the era.

As a withdrawn pre-decimal issue, the 10 Australian Shillings (1938–1952) is no longer accepted by banks or standard exchange bureaux and is commonly discovered in inherited collections or long-kept travel souvenirs. If you have historic Australian banknotes and want a simple way to exchange foreign coins, our UK-based service provides a convenient 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

Older overseas denominations such as shillings fall outside modern banking systems and are typically refused by high-street exchanges. We specialise in exchanging leftover currency for individuals, charities, and businesses across the UK, offering a trusted route to convert obsolete foreign banknotes into pounds securely without needing a collector or auction sale.