Australian Half Sovereign (1923 – 1927 Series)

The Australian Half Sovereign banknote issued between 1923 and 1927 belongs to the early Commonwealth Bank of Australia paper currency series produced shortly after the government centralised note issuance. Representing ten shillings in pre-decimal currency, the denomination acted as an everyday transactional note while still carrying the formal engraving style used across higher-value issues. Its detailed borders and structured typography reflect early 20th-century security printing techniques designed to balance durability with authenticity verification.

On the front of the banknote, the inscription Commonwealth of Australia runs prominently across the centre above the legal tender promise. The denomination is expressed as Half Sovereign and repeated as “1/2” in decorative panels at both ends for clear identification. At the left appears the Australian Coat of Arms within a circular medallion, while ornate patterned borders surround the central text panel. Serial numbers are printed in matching positions across the upper section, and the overall layout is symmetrical to aid recognition in circulation.

The reverse presents a finely engraved landscape featuring a dam and flowing water within an oval vignette. The scene is framed by elaborate scrollwork and textured geometric backgrounds that extend to both edges of the note. The monochrome brown palette emphasises engraving detail, with layered linework providing depth and resistance to reproduction. The denomination “HALF” appears in shaped panels at each end, reinforcing the value in a visually balanced composition.

As a withdrawn pre-decimal denomination, Half Sovereign banknotes are no longer accepted by banks or exchange bureaux and are typically found in inherited collections or historic documents. If you would like to exchange leftover currency, our UK-based service provides a straightforward solution.

• Indicate the quantity of Half Sovereign banknotes you want to exchange

• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button

• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Many historic foreign banknotes cannot be processed by traditional exchange providers because they fall outside modern clearing systems. We exchange leftover currency for individuals, charities, and businesses across the UK, offering a trusted route to convert obsolete overseas banknotes into pounds securely and efficiently instead of leaving them unused.