5 Australian Shillings (1938 – 1952 Series)

The 5 Australian Shillings banknote issued between 1938 and 1952 formed part of Australia’s pre-decimal monetary system, used prior to decimalisation in 1966. Produced by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, the note reflects the formal and highly ornamented style typical of mid-20th-century Commonwealth currency. Its compact size and dense engraving made it a practical everyday denomination while still conveying national authority and stability.

On the front of the banknote appears a portrait of King George VI set within an oval frame at the centre of the design. The engraving uses fine line shading to create depth and clarity in the facial features and military uniform. Surrounding the portrait are intricate guilloché patterns and decorative borders that served both artistic and anti-counterfeit purposes. The inscription Commonwealth of Australia spans the upper margin, while the denomination is written as Five Shillings across the lower centre. Signature panels for issuing officials appear beneath the main text, and serial numbers are printed at both sides, integrated neatly into the ornamental layout.

The monochrome colour scheme emphasises linework rather than colour variation, a typical security approach of the era. Every section of the banknote contains repeated patterns designed to make reproduction difficult, reflecting the printing techniques available during the late interwar and wartime period. As a widely circulated small denomination, this note would have been commonly used in everyday transactions across Australia for over a decade.

Because the pre-decimal Australian pound system was withdrawn in 1966, the 5 Australian Shillings (1938–1952) is no longer accepted by banks or standard exchange bureaux. These notes are frequently found in inherited collections, old travel keepsakes, or mixed bundles of historic foreign currency. If you want a simple way to exchange foreign coins and notes, our UK-based service provides an easy alternative.

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

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

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