5 Australian Pounds (1923 – 1927 Series)

The 5 Australian Pounds banknote issued between 1923 and 1927 belongs to one of the earliest Commonwealth Bank of Australia national series produced after the transfer of note-issuing powers from the Treasury. Printed in a detailed engraved style typical of early 20th-century banknotes, the design combines national symbolism, formal typography, and landscape imagery to convey stability and identity during the interwar period.

On the front of the banknote, the composition is dominated by strong ornamental framing and repeated denomination panels. The title The Commonwealth of Australia appears across the centre, accompanied by the formal legal tender promise in flowing script. At the right is a portrait of King George V set within a star-shaped medallion, engraved with fine shading. On the left sits a large oval panel containing the Australian Coat of Arms, flanked by decorative guilloché patterns. Serial numbers appear prominently across the upper centre, and the denomination “5” is repeated in multiple locations to ensure clear recognition. The colour palette blends blue and green tones layered over intricate background patterning.

The reverse presents a panoramic river landscape framed within a wide engraved vignette. Calm water stretches through tree-lined banks toward distant hills, representing the natural environment of Australia. Large “5” devices appear at each end within patterned panels, while the words Five Pounds are printed along the lower margin. The surrounding border uses complex repeating geometry, reinforcing both the aesthetic and anti-counterfeit properties of the note.

As a withdrawn pre-decimal issue, the 5 Australian Pounds (1923–1927) is no longer accepted by banks or high-street exchange bureaux and is most often discovered in inherited collections, antique paperwork, or historic travel keepsakes. If you want a simple way to exchange foreign coins, our UK-based service provides a practical solution.

• Indicate the quantity of 5 Australian Pound banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Very old overseas banknotes typically fall outside modern banking clearing systems, meaning traditional providers will refuse them. 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 and efficiently rather than leaving them unused.