Ultimate Guide to $10 Commonwealth of Australia Banknotes: History, Mintage, Price Chart & Collector Value

The $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote is one of the most recognisable and historically important notes from the early years of Australian decimal currency. First issued on 14 February 1966, when Australia changed from pounds, shillings and pence to dollars and cents, the original paper $10 note introduced Australians to a bold new style of national currency.

For collectors today, Commonwealth of Australia $10 notes are valued for much more than their face value. The signature combination, issue period, mintage, condition, serial-number prefix, replacement status and printing variety can all influence collector demand. Some ordinary circulated examples remain relatively affordable, while scarce first prefixes, last prefixes, star replacement notes and exceptional uncirculated specimens can command substantial premiums.

One important historical distinction should also be understood. The original paper $10 banknote did not feature AB “Banjo” Paterson and Dame Mary Gilmore. Those famous literary figures appeared on the later polymer $10 series. The original Commonwealth of Australia paper $10 instead honoured architect Francis Greenway and writer Henry Lawson, making it a particularly interesting note for collectors of Australian history.

History of the Commonwealth of Australia $10 Banknote

Australia officially adopted decimal currency on 14 February 1966, commonly remembered as C-Day. New $1, $2, $10 and $20 banknotes entered circulation as part of the initial decimal series, followed by the $5 denomination in 1967.

The first decimal banknotes represented a significant break from Australia's previous currency designs. They used brighter colours, more distinctly Australian themes and portraits of people associated with the nation's cultural, agricultural and technological development.

The $10 denomination was predominantly blue and was designed around Australia's contribution to architecture and literature. Francis Greenway appeared on the front, accompanied by architectural elements associated with his work. Henry Lawson appeared on the reverse with imagery connected to his writing and Australian life.

The original note measured approximately 155 mm by 77.5 mm and was printed on high-quality paper. Important security features included a Captain James Cook watermark, metallic security thread and raised intaglio printing.

These characteristics are useful when examining genuine examples today.

Francis Greenway and Henry Lawson Design

Francis Greenway, whose portrait dominates the front of the original $10 note, became one of colonial Australia's best-known architects. After arriving in New South Wales in the early nineteenth century, he became closely associated with Governor Lachlan Macquarie's ambitious building program.

Architectural details surrounding Greenway's portrait emphasised the cultural contribution represented by the denomination.

The reverse featured Henry Lawson, one of Australia's most celebrated writers and poets. Lawson's literary works frequently explored life in the Australian bush, hardship, friendship, isolation and the experiences of ordinary people.

Together, Greenway and Lawson made the $10 note distinctive within the first decimal series because the denomination prominently celebrated architecture and literature.

Commonwealth of Australia $10 Note Mintage

Mintage is an important starting point when studying Australian banknotes, although total production alone does not determine modern rarity. Millions of notes may have been produced, but many were heavily circulated, damaged or eventually destroyed after withdrawal.

Major Commonwealth of Australia paper $10 issues include:

The 1967 Coombs/Randall issue stands out because its standard-note production was considerably lower than several surrounding issues. However, surviving condition, prefixes and replacement-note rarity must always be considered alongside mintage.

2026 Commonwealth of Australia $10 Banknote Price Chart

Collector prices fluctuate according to grade, prefix, serial number, market demand and whether the note has been professionally assessed. The following figures are broad 2026 estimates in Australian dollars for ordinary examples. Exceptional first prefixes, last prefixes, star notes and rare errors may sell for considerably more.

These figures should not be treated as guaranteed selling prices. A note's actual value depends on its exact variety and condition. A heavily worn ordinary note and a crisp uncirculated example from the same issue can have dramatically different collector values.

How Much Is a 1966 Australian $10 Note Worth?

The 1966 Coombs/Wilson $10 note has special importance because it represents the first year of Australia's decimal currency.

An ordinary circulated 1966 note may be worth only a modest premium above face value, especially when it has numerous folds, stains, edge damage or writing. Better-condition notes become increasingly desirable.

Uncirculated examples with strong original paper, sharp corners and no folds can command significantly higher prices.

The prefix is especially important. SAA was the first prefix of the Australian decimal $10 denomination and is actively sought by collectors. High-grade SAA notes can be worth several hundred dollars, with exceptional examples potentially commanding still higher prices.

Last-prefix notes can also be considerably scarcer than ordinary examples.

Australian $10 Star Replacement Notes

Star notes rank among the most desirable Commonwealth of Australia $10 varieties.

During banknote production, notes damaged or rejected during printing had to be replaced so that bundles retained the correct number of notes. Special replacement notes were printed for this purpose. Their serial numbers included a star symbol, which is why collectors commonly call them star notes.

Approximate production figures demonstrate their scarcity:

The number of surviving high-grade examples is much smaller than the original production totals.

Depending on the exact prefix and grade, Commonwealth $10 star notes can be worth hundreds or thousands of Australian dollars. Exceptional uncirculated examples of scarce replacement prefixes may reach several thousand dollars.

Collectors should therefore examine old $10 notes carefully rather than judging them only by their printed year or general appearance.

Signature Combinations Matter

Two signatures appear on Australian banknotes, representing senior officials responsible for currency issuance at the time.

Collectors use these combinations to classify different issues.

Important Commonwealth of Australia $10 signature combinations include Coombs/Wilson, Coombs/Randall, Phillips/Randall and Phillips/Wheeler.

The signature combination can immediately narrow down a note's issue period and catalogue variety.

The 1967 Coombs/Randall $10 is particularly notable because ordinary high-grade examples are considerably more difficult to obtain than many other standard paper $10 notes.

Rare Serial Numbers and Prefixes

Serial numbers can dramatically affect the collector value of Australian $10 banknotes.

First-prefix notes mark the beginning of a production series, while last-prefix notes represent the end. Collectors often pay substantial premiums for both, particularly when the note remains in excellent condition.

The 1966 SAA first prefix is one of the best-known examples.

The final Phillips/Wheeler Commonwealth issue also has specialised prefix varieties. TBB is recognised as the last prefix associated with that issue and can attract a premium over an ordinary note.

Fancy serial numbers may provide additional collector appeal. Examples include very low numbers such as 000001, repeated digits such as 777777, radar or palindrome numbers, solid numbers, ladders and other unusual patterns.

A fancy number does not automatically make a note extremely valuable, but an attractive serial number combined with a scarce prefix and high grade can significantly increase demand.

Condition and Banknote Grading

Condition is one of the strongest influences on Australian banknote value.

A note that looks acceptable to a casual owner may still show significant wear when inspected by an experienced collector. Folds, creases, rounded corners, stains, tears, pinholes, writing and loss of original paper quality can all reduce value.

Common grading descriptions include Good, Very Good, Fine, Very Fine, Extremely Fine, About Uncirculated and Uncirculated.

An uncirculated note should retain strong original qualities and show no evidence of normal circulation.

Collectors should never iron, wash, chemically clean or otherwise attempt to improve an old banknote. Artificial alteration can permanently reduce its numismatic value.

Store collectible notes flat in suitable archival-quality holders and avoid unnecessary handling.

From Commonwealth of Australia to Australia

An important change occurred during the 1970s.

Early decimal banknotes carried the wording “COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA.” Beginning with later issues, the heading was simplified to “AUSTRALIA.”

The 1972 Phillips/Wheeler issue therefore represents an important transitional area for collectors interested specifically in notes bearing Commonwealth of Australia.

The Francis Greenway and Henry Lawson paper design continued after the wording changed, meaning that not every old Australian paper $10 note should automatically be described as a Commonwealth of Australia issue.

This difference is important when identifying and cataloguing a note correctly.

The 1988 Polymer $10 and Later Designs

The Australian $10 denomination later became historically important for another reason.

In 1988, Australia issued a commemorative $10 banknote made from polymer to celebrate the Australian Bicentenary. It was the world's first circulating banknote printed on polymer substrate and became a major milestone in modern currency technology.

Australia subsequently moved from paper to polymer across its circulating banknote series.

The regular polymer $10 design introduced in the 1990s featured AB “Banjo” Paterson and Dame Mary Gilmore. These notes belong to a different generation from the original Greenway-Lawson Commonwealth paper notes.

This distinction is important because the two series are sometimes incorrectly combined when discussing Australian $10 banknote history.

What Makes a Commonwealth $10 Note Valuable?

The most important factors are condition, issue, signature combination, prefix, serial number, replacement status and genuine scarcity.

A standard heavily circulated note from a large production run may have only a modest premium. The same denomination can become highly valuable when it is an early prefix, last prefix, star replacement, unusual serial number, printing error or exceptionally preserved uncirculated example.

Collectors should therefore examine every feature before estimating value.

For potentially valuable notes, comparison with recent specialist sales and professional authentication can be worthwhile.

Collecting Commonwealth of Australia $10 Notes

The Commonwealth of Australia $10 banknote offers an excellent collecting field because it combines national history, attractive artwork, numerous signature combinations and several significant rarities.

A beginner might start with one standard example from each major signature combination. More advanced collectors may pursue first and last prefixes, consecutive serial numbers, replacement notes and high-grade specimens.

The 1966 Coombs/Wilson first issue remains especially attractive because of its connection with Australia's decimal currency changeover, while the lower-mintage 1967 Coombs/Randall issue is another important target. Star notes provide an additional challenge for specialist collectors.

Final Collector Value Guide

Australian Commonwealth $10 notes should never be valued using year alone. Two apparently similar notes can have completely different market values because of their serial prefix, signatures, condition or replacement-note status.

The four major Commonwealth paper issues—1966 Coombs/Wilson, 1967 Coombs/Randall, 1968 Phillips/Randall and 1972 Phillips/Wheeler—form an important chapter in Australian numismatic history. Together they document the country's transition into decimal currency and the evolution of Australian banknote production.

For collectors searching for valuable Australian $10 banknotes, the most important details to check are the signatures, prefix, full serial number, star symbol, paper condition and whether the note represents a first or last production prefix.

An ordinary old $10 note may be worth only a modest premium, but a scarce replacement note, important prefix or pristine uncirculated specimen can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

That combination of history, rarity, design and discovery continues to make the Commonwealth of Australia $10 banknote one of the most fascinating denominations in Australian paper-money collecting.

List of $10 Commonwealth of Australia Banknotes (2026 Updated)

The $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote is one of the most important denominations in Australia's decimal currency history. First introduced in 1966 following the change from pounds, shillings, and pence to decimal currency, the paper $10 note circulated for more than two decades before being replaced by Australia's groundbreaking polymer $10 note in 1988. Featuring distinguished Australian historical figures and advanced security features for its era, the $10 banknote remains highly sought after by collectors. Values depend on condition, signature combinations, replacement note status, serial number rarity, and year of issue. High-grade uncirculated notes, rare replacement issues, and scarce signature varieties often command significant premiums. The following 2026 updated value guide provides a detailed year-wise price list for Commonwealth of Australia $10 banknotes.

Commonwealth of Australia $10 Banknotes Value List (2026)

Signature Combination Value Guide

Replacement Note Values

Most Valuable Commonwealth of Australia $10 Notes

Complete $10 Commonwealth of Australia Collection Values

The Commonwealth of Australia $10 banknotes issued between 1966 and 1987 remain among the most desirable Australian paper money collectibles. Collectors particularly pursue first-year decimal issues, scarce replacement notes, rare signature combinations, and the final paper note issues before the transition to polymer currency. In the 2026 market, pristine uncirculated examples, low serial numbers, and replacement notes continue to achieve the strongest premiums and represent important pieces of Australia's modern currency history.

📜 History of the $10 Commonwealth of Australia Banknote

• Decimal Introduction: February 14, 1966

• Replaced: £5 pre-decimal note

• Initial Design Theme: Honoring Francis Greenway (architect) & Henry Lawson (author)

• Material Used: Paper (1966–1993)

• Label Used: “Commonwealth of Australia” (revised to “Australia” post-1974)

The earliest notes proudly displayed the “Commonwealth of Australia” on top of the front side. This name was eventually shortened to “Australia” in the later 1970s as part of the modernization of currency titles.

📚 Chronological List of $10 Commonwealth of Australia Notes (1966–1993)

Here’s a detailed list of the official $10 banknotes issued under the Commonwealth of Australia label:

🔹 1966 First Issue - Coombs/Wilson

• Design Features:

  • Obverse: Francis Greenway

  • Reverse: Henry Lawson

  • Green & blue color scheme

• Signatures: Coombs/Wilson

• Serial Prefixes: SDA to SDZ

• Special Note: Star notes issued as replacements (rare)

• Market Value:

  • Circulated: $30–$80

  • UNC (Uncirculated): $120–$300

  • Star Note: $2,000 – $4,000+

🔹 1967–1972 – Multiple Signature Variants

• Signature Pairs:

  • Coombs/Randall

  • Phillips/Randall

  • Phillips/Wheeler

• Notable Changes: Variations in serial fonts and printing methods

• Value Range:

  • Circulated: $25 – $60

  • UNC: $100 – $250

  • Star Notes: $1,500 – $3,500 depending on rarity

🔹 1974–1979 – Title Changed to “Australia”

• Major Change:

  • “Commonwealth of Australia” replaced by simply “Australia” on the banknote

• Signature Pairs:

  • Knight/Wheeler

  • Knight/Stone

• Design: Retained similar visuals, improved printing quality

• Market Value:

  • Circulated: $20–$45

  • UNC: $80–$180

  • Rare Prefixes: ZFD, ZFE fetch higher value

🔹 1988 Polymer Bicentennial Note

While technically not labeled under “Commonwealth of Australia,” the 1988 polymer $10 note marked a turning point in note design and deserves honorable mention.

• Design Theme: Bicentenary of European Settlement in Australia

• Material: Polymer (First of its kind globally)

• Market Value:

  • UNC: $30–$600+

  • AA Prefix: Collector favorite, often higher value

⭐ Understanding Star Notes and Prefix Rarity

🔸 What is a Star Note?

A Star Note was issued as a replacement for misprinted or damaged notes during production. Instead of a normal serial number, a ‘*’ (star) appeared after the prefix.

• Example: SDZ*

• Rarity: Very high – low volume produced

• Value (depending on condition and prefix): $1,500 to over $4,000

🔍 List of Valuable and Rare $10 Commonwealth Note Prefixes

💰 Estimated Price Guide: $10 Commonwealth of Australia Notes

🛒 Where to Buy or Sell $10 Commonwealth Notes

You can buy or sell these notes through:

1. eBay Australia – Auctions and BIN listings

2. Noble Numismatics – Trusted numismatic auctioneer

3. Downies Collectables – Retail & wholesale

4. Facebook Collector Groups – Community exchanges

5. Coin Shows and Currency Exhibitions – Face-to-face deals and appraisals

🧠 Tips to Identify Valuable $10 Notes

• Look for uncirculated quality (crisp edges, no creases)

• Check the signature combination and prefix series

• Note any printing errors, misalignments, or ink smudges

• Rare serial numbers (e.g., 000001 or radar numbers like 123321)

• Check for star serial numbers

🧴 Preserving Your Banknotes – Storage Tips

• Store in acid-free plastic sleeves

• Keep in cool, dry, dark conditions

• Handle only with cotton gloves

• Avoid folding, rolling, or taping

• Invest in a numismatic binder or display album

🧾 Conclusion: Why Collect $10 Commonwealth of Australia Notes?

Collecting the $10 Commonwealth of Australia note is more than a hobby – it’s a window into the nation’s economic and cultural transformation. These notes reflect Australia's journey from the pound system to decimal currency, from paper to polymer, and from traditional printing to security innovations. Whether you’re collecting for nostalgia, investment, or historical interest, each note carries a story worth preserving.

List of FAQ about $10 Commonwealth of Australia Banknotes

The $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote is a fascinating piece of monetary history that bridges Australia’s transition from the pound system to the modern decimal dollar. Issued in 1966 under the title “Commonwealth of Australia,” these banknotes marked a major milestone in Australia’s financial evolution. Their design, historical relevance, and collector appeal make them a cornerstone of Australian numismatic collections.

1. When was the $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote first issued?

The $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote was first released on 14 February 1966, when Australia transitioned from the pre-decimal currency (pounds, shillings, pence) to the decimal system (dollars and cents). It replaced the £5 note and was one of the first decimal notes issued by the Reserve Bank of Australia.

2. Why does the note say “Commonwealth of Australia”?

The phrase “Commonwealth of Australia” was printed on the early series of decimal notes to signify the national issuing authority. It reflected Australia’s federal identity and government sovereignty. Later series (post-1974) replaced it with the shorter term “Australia” as part of a design modernization.

3. Who designed the $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote?

The note was designed by Gordon Andrews, one of Australia’s leading graphic designers. His designs balanced aesthetic beauty, historical themes, and security features, symbolizing the new era of Australian currency after decimalization.

4. What portraits appear on the $10 Commonwealth note?

The 1966 $10 Commonwealth note featured Francis Greenway, the renowned colonial architect, on the front, and Henry Lawson, one of Australia’s most famous poets and short story writers, on the reverse. This pairing represented creativity and innovation in early Australian society.

5. What color is the $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote?

The note was predominantly blue, symbolizing clarity, trust, and national progress. This color theme has remained consistent for all future $10 notes, including polymer issues, helping people easily recognize the denomination.

6. What scenes are depicted on the note?

• The front of the note features Francis Greenway’s portrait, along with architectural imagery referencing his works like St. James’ Church in Sydney.

• The reverse shows Henry Lawson, accompanied by illustrations of early Australian life and rural storytelling, celebrating the bush heritage.

7. What size is the $10 Commonwealth banknote?

The paper $10 note measured approximately 157.5 mm × 81 mm, larger than today’s polymer notes. The larger format allowed for detailed engraving and complex security elements.

8. What paper material was used for the note?

These notes were printed on a special cotton-based paper developed for durability and resistance to wear. The texture was distinct — slightly rough yet flexible — a hallmark of mid-20th-century Australian banknote printing.

9. What signatures appear on the $10 Commonwealth notes?

The first $10 Commonwealth notes bear the signatures of H.C. Coombs (Governor of the Reserve Bank) and Roland Wilson (Secretary to the Treasury). Later notes carried other combinations like Phillips/Wheeler and Phillips/Randall, depending on the issue year.

10. When did the $10 Commonwealth note change to “Australia”?

The wording changed from “Commonwealth of Australia” to simply “Australia” around 1974. This change was part of a broader modernization strategy by the Reserve Bank to simplify the note’s design and align it with contemporary branding.

11. Are $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknotes still legal tender?

Yes, all Australian banknotes issued since 1966 — including those marked “Commonwealth of Australia” — remain legal tender. However, they are no longer in circulation and are mostly found in collector markets or museums.

12. Why were the paper $10 notes replaced?

Paper notes were replaced by polymer notes beginning in the 1990s due to issues of durability and counterfeiting. Polymer banknotes last much longer, are waterproof, and offer advanced security features.

13. How can you identify a genuine $10 Commonwealth note?

Genuine notes feature:

• Fine intaglio engraving visible under magnification

• Distinct texture of cotton paper

• Sharp printing with no blurriness

• Consistent coloring and alignment
  Modern counterfeit detection tools can also verify authenticity.

14. What is the collector value of $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknotes?

The value depends on condition, year, and rarity:

• Circulated notes: $20–$50

• Uncirculated notes: $150–$400

• Star notes or rare serial numbers: $500 or more
  Collectors prize early 1966 issues and rare signature combinations.

15. What is a “star replacement note”?

A star replacement note is one printed to replace a damaged or defective note. It features a small star symbol (*) next to the serial number. Star notes are rarer and significantly more valuable to collectors.

16. What are serial number prefixes on the $10 Commonwealth note?

Each note carries a two-letter prefix and a numeric serial number. Prefixes such as TA, TB, TC, TD were common in early runs. Specific prefixes may indicate limited print batches, adding to their collectibility.

17. How were these notes printed?

The notes were printed by the Note Printing Branch of the Reserve Bank of Australia in Melbourne using intaglio and offset printing techniques. These methods gave the notes their rich texture and fine-line detail.

18. Were there any design errors or misprints?

Some early $10 Commonwealth notes exhibited minor alignment errors or ink smudges, which are now considered printing anomalies. Such error notes are rare and can command high prices in the numismatic market.

19. How long were the $10 Commonwealth notes in circulation?

The “Commonwealth of Australia” version remained in circulation from 1966 to around 1974, after which the new “Australia” notes gradually replaced them. However, older notes continued to circulate for several years before full withdrawal.

20. What replaced the $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote?

The $10 “Australia” note replaced it in the mid-1970s. Later, in 1993, the polymer $10 note featuring Banjo Paterson and Mary Gilmore** was introduced, starting a new era of Australian currency innovation.

21. What cultural importance does the $10 Commonwealth note hold?

This note was part of Australia’s first decimal currency series, symbolizing a major step toward modernization. It reflects the country’s architectural and literary achievements, embodying both colonial and creative progress.

22. Can I still exchange a $10 Commonwealth note at the bank?

Yes, banks will accept it at face value, but collectors often offer much higher prices depending on condition and rarity. It’s best to have the note appraised before exchanging it.

23. What are the main differences between the Commonwealth and Australia versions?

24. What are the most valuable $10 Commonwealth notes?

• 1966 Coombs/Wilson Star Note

• First-prefix issues (TA01)

• Uncirculated 1966 notes in original condition

• Misprints or color shifts
  These can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars at auction.

25. Where can I sell or buy $10 Commonwealth notes?

You can buy or sell through:

• Numismatic dealers

• Coin and banknote fairs

• Online marketplaces (eBay, Downies, Noble Numismatics)

• Currency auctions
  Always authenticate notes and verify dealer reputation.

26. How do collectors preserve $10 Commonwealth banknotes?

Proper storage includes:

• Archival-grade currency sleeves

• Low humidity environments

• Avoiding direct sunlight

• No folding or taping
  These methods preserve note quality and prevent fading.

27. Were any commemorative $10 Commonwealth notes issued?

No official commemorative $10 Commonwealth notes were produced. However, souvenir replicas and framed sets marking the 1966 decimal changeover are available from collectors.

28. What replaced paper notes in later years?

Australia pioneered polymer banknotes in 1988 with a $10 commemorative note celebrating the bicentenary. The general polymer $10 note was issued in 1993, marking the end of the paper note era.

29. Are Commonwealth $10 notes considered rare today?

Yes. As these notes were withdrawn over 40 years ago, uncirculated examples are rare. The “Commonwealth of Australia” wording adds historical value, making them a prized collectible.

30. Why are the $10 Commonwealth notes important to collectors?

They represent Australia’s economic transformation, embody classic engraving artistry, and serve as tangible links to the birth of decimal currency. Their historical, aesthetic, and nostalgic appeal ensures enduring demand among collectors.

31. Are these notes still legal tender?

A: No. They are withdrawn from circulation but can be exchanged at the Reserve Bank.

32. What’s the most valuable $10 Commonwealth note?

A: Star notes or notes with extremely rare prefixes in UNC condition.

33. How can I check my note’s value?

A: Match the signature, serial prefix, and condition against known price guides or have it professionally appraised.

34. Are damaged notes still collectible?

A: Some are, particularly if they’re rare or unique. However, value decreases significantly.

🏛️ Conclusion

The $10 Commonwealth of Australia banknote stands as a vital artifact of Australia’s currency heritage. From its introduction during the decimal changeover to its intricate design featuring Francis Greenway and Henry Lawson, every element reflects the nation’s journey of modernization and creativity. Though long replaced by polymer notes, the Commonwealth $10 remains a collector’s treasure — a timeless reminder of Australia’s financial evolution and artistic legacy.

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