Complete Guide to Australian $10 Banknotes: History, Mintage, Rare Notes, Value by Year & Collector Prices (2026 Update)
The Australian $10 banknote is one of the most interesting denominations in modern Australian currency collecting. Since the introduction of decimal currency in 1966, the ten-dollar note has progressed from traditional paper money to an internationally significant commemorative polymer issue and finally to the sophisticated polymer banknotes used today.
For collectors, not every Australian $10 note is worth only ten dollars. Older paper notes, replacement star notes, scarce prefixes, unusual serial numbers, printing varieties, errors and high-grade examples can command substantial premiums. Some rare $10 notes are particularly desirable because relatively few examples survive in excellent condition.
Australia introduced its first decimal banknotes in February 1966, including the $1, $2, $10 and $20 denominations. The original $10 was printed on paper. Australia later produced its groundbreaking Bicentenary $10 polymer banknote in 1988 before introducing a regular polymer $10 series in 1993. A redesigned next-generation $10 entered circulation on 20 September 2017.
This 2026 guide examines the history, estimated mintage and printing quantities, important varieties, rare Australian $10 banknotes, serial numbers and approximate collector prices.
History of the Australian $10 Banknote
The Australian dollar officially replaced pounds, shillings and pence on 14 February 1966. The new $10 banknote replaced the old Australian £5 note at the equivalent decimal value.
The first paper $10 banknote featured architect Francis Greenway on the front and Australian writer Henry Lawson on the reverse. Early notes carried the wording "Commonwealth of Australia", while later versions used simply "Australia".
Several signature combinations and printing modifications were produced throughout the life of the paper series. Signatures are particularly important to collectors because they help identify a note's issue period and rarity.
An especially significant event occurred soon after decimalisation. Counterfeit $10 notes appeared in large numbers during the late 1960s. The incident helped encourage extensive research into more advanced banknote security and ultimately contributed to Australia's development of polymer banknotes.
1966 to 1993 Australian Paper $10 Notes
The Australian paper $10 remained in production for more than two decades. Although the basic Francis Greenway and Henry Lawson design remained recognisable, signatures, serial-number styles, security threads and other details changed.
Important paper $10 signature issues include:
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1966 – Coombs/Wilson
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1967 – Coombs/Randall
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1968 – Phillips/Randall
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1972 and 1974 – Phillips/Wheeler
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1976 – Knight/Wheeler
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1979 – Knight/Stone
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1983 – Johnston/Stone
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1985 – Johnston/Fraser
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1989 – Fraser/Higgins
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1991–1993 – Fraser/Cole
Collectors should remember that the printed year associated with a catalogue issue does not necessarily mean every note was produced only during that calendar year. Signature combinations often remained in circulation and production for longer periods.
Australian $10 Banknote Mintage and Printing Figures
Banknote collectors commonly use the word "mintage", although "printing quantity" or "production quantity" is technically more appropriate for banknotes.
Published collector records give useful indications of the number produced for several major $10 issues. For example, approximately 77.186 million Coombs/Wilson $10 notes are associated with the first 1966 issue, while the scarcer Coombs/Randall issue is recorded at approximately 48.132 million. Around 223.7 million Phillips/Randall notes were produced, while approximately 121 million Phillips/Wheeler notes covered the early-1970s production period.
| Issue | Signature/Type | Approximate Printing Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| 1966 | Coombs/Wilson | 77,186,000 |
| 1967 | Coombs/Randall | 48,132,000 |
| 1968 | Phillips/Randall | 223,700,000 |
| 1972–1974 | Phillips/Wheeler period | About 121,000,000 |
| 1976 | Knight/Wheeler | About 168,000,000 |
| 1979 | Knight/Stone varieties | About 168,000,000 combined |
| 1983 | Johnston/Stone main production | About 96,000,000 |
| 1985 | Johnston/Fraser | About 149,039,560 |
| 1991–1993 | Fraser/Cole | About 165,879,960 |
The 1979 Knight/Stone production included approximately 96 million Gothic-serial examples and approximately 72 million OCR-B serial examples according to specialist collector records.
Production quantity alone does not determine value. Millions of notes may have been printed, but comparatively few may survive today in perfect uncirculated condition. First prefixes, last prefixes, replacement notes and individual sub-varieties can also have dramatically smaller populations than the overall production figure.
The Historic 1988 Australian $10 Polymer Banknote
The 1988 Australian Bicentenary $10 is one of the most historically important modern banknotes produced anywhere in the world.
Australia released the commemorative polymer $10 in January 1988. It became the world's first circulating banknote produced on polymer incorporating an optically variable security device. Its successful introduction demonstrated that plastic-based banknotes could provide greater resistance to counterfeiting and helped establish the technology later adopted throughout Australia's currency system.
The design included representations connected with European settlement on one side and imagery relating to Aboriginal culture and history on the other. The sophisticated security device incorporated an image of Captain James Cook.
Collectors recognise several production varieties of the 1988 banknote. Differences in prefixes, varnish, production runs, presentation issues and other characteristics can affect value considerably. Specialist records indicate approximately 18.5 million notes for one major second production run, while much smaller quantities exist for individual collector and early-production varieties.
Ordinary uncirculated examples are therefore accessible to collectors, but scarce varieties can be considerably more valuable.
1993 Australian $10 Polymer Banknote
Following the success of the Bicentenary banknote, Australia progressively converted its circulating currency to polymer.
The regular polymer $10 was officially issued on 1 November 1993. Its design introduced two important Australian literary figures: Dame Mary Gilmore and Andrew Barton "Banjo" Paterson.
The note included a transparent security window, detailed microprinting and other anti-counterfeiting technology. Microprinted elements incorporated material associated with Paterson and Gilmore.
Early prefixes are particularly interesting to collectors. The AA93 first-prefix notes are commonly sought because they represent some of the earliest regular circulating polymer $10 banknotes.
A scarce KE93 last-prefix variety has a reported production of only about 916,499 notes, demonstrating why prefix research can be more important than simply looking at the denomination and year.
Rare 1994 $10 Polymer Varieties
Some early polymer $10 varieties are considerably scarcer than ordinary circulating examples.
The 1994 AA94 first-prefix issue, including the varieties collectors commonly distinguish through design differences associated with the portrait imagery, has a reported production of around 384,205 examples for the relevant scarce first-prefix type. High-grade examples can therefore attract much stronger collector demand than ordinary polymer tens.
This illustrates an important rule in Australian banknote collecting: never determine a note's value by year alone. Prefix, signatures, subtype and condition must also be checked.
2017 Next-Generation Australian $10 Note
Australia's current-generation $10 banknote entered general circulation on 20 September 2017.
It retained Dame Mary Gilmore and Banjo Paterson while incorporating substantially upgraded security technology. Features include a large top-to-bottom transparent window, rolling colour effects, microprinting, a moving sulphur-crested cockatoo element and imagery of Bramble Wattle.
Ordinary circulated examples usually have no significant collector premium because they remain current legal tender. However, first-prefix notes, unusual serial numbers, printing errors and perfectly preserved examples may attract collectors.
Australian $10 Banknote Value by Year – 2026 Price Guide
The following prices are broad 2026 collector-market estimates in Australian dollars. They should be treated as a guide rather than a guaranteed selling price.
| Year/Issue | Typical Circulated Value | Uncirculated/Collectible Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1966 Coombs/Wilson | $20–$50 | $60–$120+ |
| 1966 first prefix | $100+ | $300–$850+ |
| 1967 Coombs/Randall | $50–$150 | $250–$600+ |
| 1967 star note | $400+ | $1,000–$1,750+ |
| 1968 Phillips/Randall | $25–$70 | $100–$200+ |
| 1968 star note | $300–$600+ | $750–$1,000+ |
| 1972 Phillips/Wheeler | $20–$50 | $60–$150+ |
| 1974 Phillips/Wheeler | $25–$70 | $150–$250+ |
| 1976 Knight/Wheeler | $20–$50 | $60–$120+ |
| 1979 Knight/Stone | $25–$60 | $80–$150+ |
| 1983 Johnston/Stone | $15–$40 | $40–$100+ |
| 1985 Johnston/Fraser | $15–$30 | $25–$60+ |
| 1988 Bicentenary polymer | $15–$30 | $25–$60+ |
| 1989–1993 paper | $15–$30 | $20–$75+ |
| 1993 first polymer | $10–$25 | $30–$100+ |
| 1994 early polymer | $10–$25 | $20–$100+ |
| Rare 1994 first-prefix varieties | $100+ | $300–$700+ |
| 1995–2016 regular polymer | Around $10–$15 | $15–$50+ |
| 2017–2026 regular issue | Usually $10 | Premium mainly for special serials/errors |
Recent Australian dealer and auction results demonstrate just how strongly rarity and grade influence prices. For example, ordinary 1966 uncirculated notes have traded around the tens-of-dollars level, while scarce first-prefix examples and star notes can reach several hundred dollars or more. A 1967 star replacement note in Very Fine condition has been offered around the $1,750 level.
Star Notes Can Be Extremely Valuable
One of the first things collectors should check on an early Australian $10 note is the serial number.
Older Australian replacement notes used a star or asterisk within the serial number. These notes replaced damaged or unsuitable notes during production and were produced in much smaller quantities than ordinary banknotes.
The 1967 Coombs/Randall $10 star note is particularly desirable. Specialist records place its production at only around 164,000. Phillips/Randall $10 star notes are also scarce, with reported production around 364,004.
Condition remains extremely important, but even circulated star notes should never be dismissed as ordinary ten-dollar notes.
Valuable Australian $10 Serial Numbers
Fancy serial numbers can transform an otherwise ordinary banknote into a desirable collector item.
Look for serial numbers such as:
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000001 or other very low numbers
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999999 or similar high numbers
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111111, 222222 or other solid numbers
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123456 or 654321 sequences
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Radar numbers such as 123321
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Repeating patterns
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Binary-style numbers
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Significant historical dates
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Consecutive groups of notes
The premium depends on how visually distinctive the serial is, how difficult the pattern is to obtain and the condition of the banknote.
First Prefix and Last Prefix Australian $10 Notes
The first prefix identifies notes produced at the beginning of a particular issue, while the last prefix represents notes near the end of production.
Collectors often pay premiums for both.
A common banknote from the middle of a production run may have little value above face value, while a first or last prefix from the same year can be worth considerably more. Always inspect the complete serial number before spending or selling an older Australian $10 note.
Errors and Printing Varieties
Genuine banknote errors are another important collecting category. Potentially valuable errors include mismatched serial numbers, missing printing, ink shifts, cutting mistakes, folds created during production, unusual security-feature placement and other confirmed manufacturing abnormalities.
Normal wear, stains, tears or damage occurring after circulation are not printing errors and usually reduce value.
Authentication is especially important for apparently dramatic errors because altered banknotes can sometimes be presented as genuine production mistakes.
How Condition Affects Australian $10 Banknote Value
Condition can make a dramatic difference to value.
A heavily circulated note may have folds, rounded corners, staining, tears and general surface wear. An Extremely Fine example should retain considerable original quality with limited handling. An About Uncirculated note may show only minor evidence of handling, while a true Uncirculated note should remain crisp and free from circulation folds.
Collectors normally pay the strongest premiums for original, uncleaned banknotes.
Do not iron, wash, chemically clean or attempt to flatten a potentially valuable note. Such treatment can permanently reduce its numismatic value.
Are Old Australian $10 Notes Still Legal Tender?
Australian banknotes previously issued by the Reserve Bank remain legal tender, including older designs that are no longer commonly seen in daily circulation.
However, spending a rare banknote at face value may mean losing a potentially significant collector premium. Older paper notes, star notes, unusual prefixes and rare polymer varieties should therefore be identified before being used as ordinary money.
How to Identify a Valuable Australian $10 Note
Start by determining whether the note is paper or polymer. Next, check the signatures, year or issue period and complete serial number. Look carefully at the prefix and determine whether the note belongs to a recognised first or last production range.
Then inspect for a star symbol, unusual serial pattern, printing error or scarce design variety.
Finally, assess condition without attempting to improve it artificially.
A common circulated Australian $10 note may be worth little more than face value, while a rare star note, first prefix, last prefix, unusual 1988 variety, early polymer rarity or exceptional serial number can be worth hundreds or potentially much more.
Australian $10 Banknotes as Collectibles in 2026
Australian $10 banknotes offer an unusually broad collecting field. A collection can begin inexpensively with ordinary polymer notes and gradually expand into paper signature varieties, first and last prefixes, star replacements, fancy serial numbers, 1988 Bicentenary issues and scarce early polymer notes.
The 1966 paper $10 represents the beginning of Australia's decimal currency era. The 1988 commemorative $10 represents a technological milestone in world banknote history. The 1993 issue marked the establishment of the regular polymer series, while the 2017 design represents the modern generation of highly secure Australian currency.
For collectors checking old notes in 2026, the most important lesson is simple: never judge an Australian $10 banknote by denomination alone. Examine the signatures, prefix, serial number, condition, printing variety and production history before determining its collector value. A note that initially appears to be an ordinary ten dollars may belong to one of the scarcer and more desirable varieties in Australia's modern banknote series.
List of Australian $10 Banknotes (2026 Updated)
Australian $10 banknotes are among the most collectible and historically significant notes in Australia's decimal currency series. Introduced in 1966 during the transition from pounds to dollars, the paper $10 note circulated for several decades before being replaced by the world's first polymer $10 banknote in 1988. Featuring notable Australian figures, advanced security features, and several signature combinations, these banknotes remain highly desirable among collectors. Values depend on the year of issue, condition, rarity, replacement status, serial number, and signature varieties. While common circulated notes often trade for modest premiums, replacement notes, first-year issues, and pristine uncirculated examples can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This 2026 updated value guide provides a detailed year-wise price list for Australian $10 banknotes.
Australian $10 Banknotes Value List (2026)
| Year | Banknote Type | Circulated Value (AUD) | Uncirculated Value (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1966 | First Decimal $10 Note | $20 – $100 | $250 – $1,000 |
| 1967 | $10 Banknote | $20 – $80 | $200 – $800 |
| 1968 | $10 Banknote | $20 – $80 | $200 – $800 |
| 1969 | $10 Banknote | $20 – $90 | $250 – $900 |
| 1970 | $10 Banknote | $20 – $100 | $250 – $1,000 |
| 1971 | $10 Banknote | $25 – $100 | $300 – $1,200 |
| 1972 | $10 Banknote | $25 – $125 | $350 – $1,400 |
| 1973 | $10 Banknote | $25 – $150 | $400 – $1,600 |
| 1974 | $10 Banknote | $30 – $175 | $450 – $1,800 |
| 1975 | $10 Banknote | $30 – $200 | $500 – $2,000 |
| 1976 | $10 Banknote | $35 – $250 | $600 – $2,500 |
| 1977 | $10 Banknote | $40 – $300 | $700 – $3,000 |
| 1978 | $10 Banknote | $50 – $350 | $800 – $3,500 |
| 1979 | $10 Banknote | $60 – $400 | $900 – $4,000 |
| 1980 | $10 Banknote | $75 – $500 | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| 1981 | $10 Banknote | $100 – $600 | $1,200 – $6,000 |
| 1982 | $10 Banknote | $125 – $750 | $1,500 – $7,500 |
| 1983 | $10 Banknote | $150 – $900 | $1,800 – $9,000 |
| 1984 | $10 Banknote | $175 – $1,000 | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| 1985 | $10 Banknote | $200 – $1,200 | $2,500 – $12,000 |
| 1986 | $10 Banknote | $250 – $1,500 | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| 1987 | Final Paper $10 Note | $300 – $2,000 | $4,000 – $20,000+ |
| 1988 | First Polymer $10 Note | $50 – $500 | $500 – $5,000+ |
Australian $10 Note Signature Varieties
| Signature Combination | Estimated Value (AUD) |
| Coombs / Wilson | $100 – $1,500 |
| Coombs / Randall | $100 – $1,250 |
| Phillips / Randall | $75 – $1,000 |
| Johnston / Stone | $150 – $2,000 |
| Johnston / Fraser | $200 – $3,000 |
| Fraser / Cole | $300 – $5,000+ |
Australian $10 Replacement Note Values
| Replacement Note Year | Estimated Value (AUD) |
| 1966 Replacement Note | $2,000 – $15,000+ |
| 1970 Replacement Note | $1,500 – $10,000+ |
| 1975 Replacement Note | $2,000 – $12,000+ |
| 1980 Replacement Note | $3,000 – $15,000+ |
| 1985 Replacement Note | $5,000 – $25,000+ |
| 1987 Replacement Note | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
Most Valuable Australian $10 Banknotes
| Rank | Note Type | Estimated Value (AUD) |
| 1 | 1987 Replacement Note | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
| 2 | 1985 Replacement Note | $5,000 – $25,000+ |
| 3 | 1966 First Issue Replacement Note | $2,000 – $15,000+ |
| 4 | 1987 Uncirculated Final Paper Note | $4,000 – $20,000+ |
| 5 | 1986 Uncirculated Note | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| 6 | 1985 Uncirculated Note | $2,500 – $12,000 |
| 7 | Fraser / Cole Signature Note | $300 – $5,000+ |
| 8 | First Polymer $10 Note (1988) | $500 – $5,000+ |
| 9 | Low Serial Number Note | $1,000 – $25,000+ |
| 10 | Radar Serial Number Note | $2,000 – $30,000+ |
Australian $10 Banknote Collection Values
| Collection Type | Estimated Value (AUD) |
| Basic Circulated Collection | $500 – $2,500 |
| Complete Year Set (1966–1988) | $2,000 – $15,000+ |
| Uncirculated Collection | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
| Signature Variety Collection | $5,000 – $25,000+ |
| Replacement Note Collection | $25,000 – $150,000+ |
| Premium Serial Number Collection | $50,000 – $250,000+ |
Australian $10 banknotes remain one of the most actively collected areas of Australian paper money. First-year decimal issues from 1966, the final paper notes of 1987, the first polymer notes of 1988, and scarce replacement notes continue to command strong premiums in the 2026 market. High-grade uncirculated examples, rare signature combinations, and special serial-number varieties are particularly sought after by collectors and investors seeking historic Australian banknotes.
📜 History of the Australian $10 Note
Australia introduced the $10 note in 1966, replacing the £5 note as part of the decimal currency reform. Over the decades, both the material and design of the note have evolved significantly.
🔹 1966–1993: Paper Banknotes Era
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Material: Cotton-based paper
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Dimensions: 155mm x 80mm
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Design Themes:
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Obverse: Architect Francis Greenway
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Reverse: Author Henry Lawson
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Security Features:
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Metal security thread
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Watermark of Captain Cook
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Fine-line printing
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🔹 1988: World’s First Polymer Commemorative Note
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Issued to celebrate Australia’s Bicentennial (1788–1988)
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Innovation: World’s first circulating polymer note
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Design:
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Front: Aboriginal youth, Morning Star Pole, ship Endeavour
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Back: European settlement theme
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Special Prefixes: AB10, AA10
🔹 1993–2017: Standard Polymer Series
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Banjo Paterson and Mary Gilmore featured in first polymer standard issue
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Added security including:
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Transparent window
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Microtext
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Shadow images
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🔹 2017–Present: Next Generation Polymer Notes
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Advanced clear top-to-bottom window
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Dynamic rolling colour effect
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Tactile feature for visually impaired
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Design Continuity:
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Obverse: Dame Mary Gilmore
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Reverse: Banjo Paterson
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🗂️ Complete List of $10 Notes by Year (Australia)
| Year | Type | Design Figures | Notable Info | Collector Price Range (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1966 | Paper | Greenway / Lawson | First decimal $10 | $40 – $600+ |
| 1972 | Paper | Same | Reprint with new signatures | $30 – $400 |
| 1974 | Paper | Same | Slight colour shift | $25 – $350 |
| 1979 | Paper | Same | Updated watermark | $20 – $250 |
| 1988 | Polymer | Bicentenary | First polymer note worldwide | $100 – $2000 (special serials) |
| 1993 | Polymer | Gilmore / Paterson | First standard polymer | $10 – $70 |
| 2002 | Polymer | Same | Security feature upgrade | $10 – $60 |
| 2017 | Polymer NG | Same | New generation polymer | $10 – $50 (up to $300 if rare prefix) |
💎 Rare & Valuable $10 Notes Worth Collecting
🔸 1988 Bicentenary Polymer Note
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Prefixes: AA10, AB10 (Highly Collectible)
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UNC Value: $250 to $1000+
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With Fancy Serial Numbers: Up to $2000
🔸 Star Replacement Notes (Paper)
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Denoted with a ★ star instead of last digit
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Rare and limited in number
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Value: $150 to $800+
🔸 Fancy Serial Numbers
These are highly sought after by collectors:
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Radars (e.g., 1234321)
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Repeaters (e.g., 47474747)
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Solid (e.g., 11111111, 99999999)
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Low Serials (e.g., 0000001 – 0000100)
🔸 Misprinted or Error Notes
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Examples: Ink smudge, missing print, misalignment
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Extremely rare and sold at auctions
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Can fetch $500 to $10,000 depending on error type
🔍 How to Identify a High-Value $10 Note
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Inspect Serial Number:
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Fancy or low serial numbers increase value
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Note Condition (Grading):
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UNC (Uncirculated): Crisp, mint condition – highest value
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VF (Very Fine): Some wear, no tears
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Circulated notes fetch the least
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Check Year and Prefix:
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Some prefixes like “AA”, “AB”, “ZH” and “ZZ” are premium
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Error Check:
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Look closely for any production mistakes
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Note Type:
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Paper or polymer
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Commemorative notes are always more valuable
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📈 Current Collector Market Prices (2025 Estimate)
| Note Type | Condition | Value Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1966 Paper | Uncirculated | $300 – $600+ |
| 1988 Bicentenary Polymer | Uncirculated | $500 – $2000 |
| 1993 Standard Polymer | Circulated | $10 – $25 |
| 2017 Polymer (Rare Prefix) | Uncirculated | $20 – $100 |
| Error Notes | Any | $300 – $10,000+ |
🧠 Expert Tips for Collecting Australian $10 Notes
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Keep your notes in polymer sleeves or acid-free holders.
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Avoid folds, stains, and creases.
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Buy from reputable sellers or auctions (eBay, Noble Numismatics).
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Join Australian banknote forums or collector groups for real-time valuations.
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Track note serials using official catalogs (e.g., Renniks Australian Coin & Banknote Guide).
📚 Related Knowledge: Security Features in the 2017 $10 Note
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Rolling colour bird wing effect
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Clear window with Federation star
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Intaglio raised ink printing
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UV-reactive features
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Tactile dots for the vision-impaired
🛒 Where to Buy and Sell $10 Australian Notes
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eBay Australia – Active community of collectors
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Facebook Buy/Sell Groups – Real-time transactions
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Auction Houses – For high-value notes (Noble, Downies)
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Note Collectors’ Fairs – Events in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
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Local Coin Shops – In-person authentication and sales
🧾 Final Words: Why Australian $10 Notes Are Collector Gold
Whether you possess an old paper note from 1966 or a modern polymer issue with a rare serial number, your $10 Australian banknote could be worth far more than its face value. Understanding what makes a note valuable — including its year, condition, rarity, serial, and design — is crucial for anyone looking to explore or invest in the world of currency collecting.
In 2025, with interest in historical and rare currency at an all-time high, there has never been a better time to start collecting or selling Australian $10 notes.
List of FAQ about Australian $10 Banknotes
The Australian $10 banknote is one of the most iconic denominations in the nation’s currency system. Since the introduction of decimal currency in 1966, the $10 note has evolved through different designs, security upgrades, and materials. It has celebrated Australian writers, poets, and historical figures, making it not only a means of exchange but also a work of art that tells stories of Australia’s cultural heritage.
Below is a detailed and SEO-optimized list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Australian $10 banknote—its history, design, security features, collectible value, and much more.
1. When was the Australian $10 banknote first introduced?
The Australian $10 banknote was first issued on 14 February 1966, coinciding with the country’s shift from pounds to decimal currency. It replaced the £5 note from the pre-decimal system. This launch marked the start of Australia’s modern currency era.
2. Who designed the first Australian $10 note?
The 1966 $10 note was designed by Gordon Andrews, who also designed other denominations in the first decimal series. His design philosophy blended artistic expression with national symbolism, featuring historical figures and Indigenous motifs to reflect the country’s cultural diversity.
3. What images appear on the original $10 banknote?
The first paper $10 note featured Francis Greenway, Australia’s first colonial architect, on the front, and Henry Lawson, a celebrated writer and poet, on the reverse. Their portraits represented Australia’s creative and architectural achievements during the colonial period.
4. What color is the Australian $10 banknote?
Traditionally, the Australian $10 note has been blue. This color theme has been consistent across both the paper and polymer versions, making it instantly recognizable and easy to distinguish from other denominations.
5. When did Australia introduce the polymer $10 note?
Australia introduced the first polymer $10 banknote on 1 November 1993, replacing the paper version. It was part of the world’s first polymer currency series developed by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) in collaboration with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
6. What are the advantages of polymer $10 notes?
Polymer notes are more durable, water-resistant, and harder to counterfeit than paper notes. They also feature transparent windows and advanced holographic elements for enhanced security. Their long lifespan reduces production and replacement costs over time.
7. What design changes occurred in the 1993 polymer $10 note?
The 1993 polymer $10 note retained the blue theme but updated the portraits. It featured Banjo Paterson, author of Waltzing Matilda, and Dame Mary Gilmore, a poet and social reformer. The design celebrated Australian literature, pioneering spirit, and social progress.
8. Who designed the 1993 polymer $10 note?
The design was created by Harry Williamson, who emphasized balance, cultural symbolism, and visual clarity. The note included scenes inspired by Paterson’s poetry and Gilmore’s contributions to Australian society.
9. What is the current series of Australian $10 notes?
The latest Next Generation Banknote (NGB) series $10 note was released on 20 September 2017. It features updated security features, vibrant colors, and tactile elements to assist the visually impaired while maintaining portraits of Banjo Paterson and Mary Gilmore.
10. What are the main security features of the $10 note?
The 2017 $10 banknote includes multiple advanced features:
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Clear top-to-bottom window
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3D holographic effects
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Rolling color patches
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Microprinting and raised ink
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Fluorescent elements visible under UV light
These elements protect against counterfeiting and ensure authenticity.
11. What materials are used in the $10 note?
Modern $10 banknotes are made from polymer substrate (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene). This innovative material is lightweight, recyclable, and resistant to moisture and tearing, making it ideal for Australia’s diverse climate.
12. What are the dimensions of the Australian $10 note?
The $10 note measures 137 mm × 65 mm, consistent across both polymer generations. Its uniform size makes it compatible with automated machines, ATMs, and vending systems across the country.
13. What do the tactile features on the new $10 note represent?
The tactile feature—a series of two raised bumps near one edge—helps visually impaired individuals identify the denomination. Each note in the NGB series has a unique tactile pattern corresponding to its value.
14. Why were Banjo Paterson and Mary Gilmore chosen for the $10 note?
Both figures are literary icons. Banjo Paterson penned the legendary bush ballad Waltzing Matilda, while Dame Mary Gilmore contributed immensely to Australian poetry and social reform. Their inclusion honors Australia’s cultural and literary heritage.
15. Are old $10 paper notes still legal tender?
Yes. Older paper and first-generation polymer $10 notes remain legal tender, although they are rarely used. They are now considered collectible items, often sold among numismatists for their historical value.
16. What is the collector value of old Australian $10 banknotes?
Collector value depends on factors like year, serial number, condition, and rarity. A 1966 paper $10 note in mint condition can fetch $100–$500 or more, while a rare star note or misprint may be worth even higher.
17. What is a star replacement note?
A star note is a replacement for a damaged or defective note during printing. These carry a star symbol (*) in the serial number. Because fewer were printed, they are highly collectible and can be significantly more valuable than regular notes.
18. What are the serial number prefixes on $10 notes?
Each note carries a two-letter prefix and a serial number. These help identify the production batch, year, and printing run. Some prefixes, especially early ones, are rare and sought after by collectors.
19. How can you verify if your $10 note is genuine?
You can check:
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The clear window should be part of the note, not glued on.
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Tilt the note to see the rolling color effect.
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Feel the raised ink on text and portraits.
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Look for microprinting and UV fluorescent elements.
These features distinguish authentic notes from counterfeits.
20. Are Australian $10 banknotes used outside Australia?
Yes, they are recognized in some Pacific regions where Australian currency circulates informally, such as Norfolk Island and Christmas Island, but they are not legal tender internationally.
21. What does the clear window on the $10 note depict?
The window design varies between series. In the 2017 note, the clear window features a wattle branch, bird (Sulphur-crested Cockatoo), and geometric patterns—all reflecting elements of Australian flora and fauna.
22. What is the lifespan of a polymer $10 note?
A polymer $10 note typically lasts seven to ten years, compared to about one year for old paper notes. This longevity makes polymer notes a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.
23. How do I clean or care for a polymer $10 note?
If a note gets dirty, gently wipe it with a damp cloth. Avoid detergents, heat, or scrubbing. Polymer notes are durable but can deform under extreme temperatures or folding.
24. What year was the Next Generation $10 note released?
The Next Generation $10 note was launched in 2017, following the introduction of the $5 note in 2016. The RBA aimed to modernize the entire banknote series with improved security and accessibility features.
25. How many $10 banknotes are in circulation today?
As of recent RBA data, over 200 million $10 notes are estimated to be in circulation. The figure fluctuates based on economic demand and note replacement schedules.
26. What anti-counterfeiting technologies does the RBA use for $10 notes?
The RBA uses cutting-edge technologies such as:
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Holographic windows
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Color-shifting ink
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Microtext and raised elements
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UV-sensitive fibers
These make modern $10 notes among the most secure in the world.
27. Can I exchange old $10 notes at a bank?
Yes. All Australian banknotes issued since 1966 remain legal tender. Banks will accept them at face value, though collectors might offer more depending on the rarity or condition.
28. What bird is featured on the 2017 $10 note?
The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is featured in the transparent window. This bird symbolizes Australia’s native wildlife and complements the natural imagery of the NGB series.
29. What is the meaning of the poetry on the note?
The new $10 note features excerpts from Banjo Paterson’s and Mary Gilmore’s poems, honoring Australia’s literary tradition. The printed verses include lines from The Man from Snowy River and No Foe Shall Gather Our Harvest.
30. Why is the Australian $10 banknote significant today?
Beyond its monetary function, the $10 note stands as a symbol of national identity, innovation, and heritage. Its evolution from paper to polymer reflects Australia’s pioneering role in secure, sustainable banknote technology.
31. Is the 1988 $10 note valuable?
Yes, especially with serials like AA10 or AB10 and in UNC condition. Value can reach over $1000.
32. How do I sell my old $10 Australian note?
You can sell it through online platforms like eBay, collector groups, or numismatic auction houses.
33. Are old $10 paper notes still legal tender?
Yes, but they are rarely seen in circulation and mostly traded as collectibles.
34. What’s the difference between polymer and paper $10 notes?
Polymer notes are more durable, water-resistant, and feature advanced security. Paper notes are now rare and highly collectible.
🏦 Conclusion
The Australian $10 banknote is a perfect blend of art, history, and technology. From the 1966 paper note featuring colonial architects to the modern polymer masterpiece celebrating poets and social reformers, each version tells a story of progress. With advanced security features, distinctive blue color, and tactile design, the $10 note continues to serve as both a practical tool and a cultural icon. For collectors and enthusiasts, understanding its evolution deepens appreciation for Australia’s rich monetary history and artistic legacy.
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