2022 Australian $100 Banknote: Full List, History, Rarity, and Collector Value Explained

The 2022 Australian $100 banknote stands as the highest denomination in circulation, combining modern innovation with strong historical and collector appeal. Issued under the authority of the Reserve Bank of Australia, this polymer note reflects Australia’s global leadership in banknote technology, featuring advanced security elements such as transparent windows, microprinting, and tactile features for accessibility. Beyond its everyday use in high-value transactions, the 2022 $100 note has become increasingly attractive to collectors due to its design precision, serial number variations, and potential rarity in specific print runs. Certain notes—especially those with low serial numbers, unique patterns, or replacement prefixes—can command values well above their face value in the numismatic market. The note also showcases detailed artwork celebrating Australia’s cultural heritage, adding to its aesthetic and historical significance. This comprehensive guide explores the full list of 2022 $100 banknotes, including their design features, rarity factors, and current market trends. As of 2026, understanding these aspects is essential for collectors and investors looking to identify valuable notes and make informed decisions in the evolving currency collectibles market.

🕰️ History of the Australian $100 Note

Australia's $100 banknote was first introduced in 1984, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of high-denomination currency. The note transitioned from paper to polymer in 1996, a world-leading innovation by Note Printing Australia.

In 2020–2022, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) introduced a redesigned Next Generation $100 note, continuing Australia’s status as a global leader in polymer currency technology.

👤 Who Appears on the 2022 Australian $100 Note?

These figures were selected to honor Australia's cultural and military history. Their portraits are accompanied by symbolic elements like musical notes, microphones, and engineering motifs.

🛡️ Security Features of the 2022 $100 Polymer Note

The 2022 $100 note includes some of the world’s most advanced security features:

• Clear top-to-bottom window

• Reversing numbers

• Rolling color effect in the bird image

• Tactile features for vision-impaired users

• Microprinting and UV features

• Color-shifting ink and 3D effects

These innovations help ensure durability and prevent counterfeiting while aiding accessibility.

🎨 Design Specifications of the 2022 $100 Note

The 2022 note retains the overall dimensions but is visually and technologically advanced compared to earlier versions.

📋 Complete Serial Prefix List of $100 Notes Issued in 2022

The serial prefix is a vital identifier for collectors, often determining a note's rarity and value.

🔎 Note: Pricing depends on condition, serial pattern, and collector demand.

💵 Rare 2022 $100 Note Variants Worth Collecting

1. First Prefix Notes (AA22)

   • First-off-the-press notes

   • Collector demand is high

   • Value in UNC: $250–$350+

2. Last Prefix (ZZ22)

   • Usually printed in smaller quantities

   • Can exceed $400+ in top grade

3. Solid Serial Numbers (e.g., 000000, 888888)

   • Ultra-rare, premium prices

   • Up to $1,000+ in auctions

4. Radar Notes (e.g., 1234321, 4004004)

   • Palindromic sequences

   • Value ranges: $200–$600+

5. Low Serial Numbers (Below 000100)

   • Exceptionally valuable

   • Frequently exceed $1,500 in auctions

6. Misprints or Error Notes

   • Ink smears, misalignment, double prints

   • Prices vary greatly based on uniqueness

📈 2022 $100 Note Value Table by Condition

🛍️ Where to Buy or Sell 2022 $100 Notes

• Online Marketplaces:
  eBay, NumisBids, MA-Shops

• Collectors’ Forums:
  Australian Banknote Collectors Group (Facebook, Reddit)

• Coin Dealers:
  ANDA-approved numismatic sellers

• Coin Shows/Expos:
  Check RBA/Note Printing Australia events

🧠 Tips for Banknote Investors & Collectors

• Always buy UNC (Uncirculated) notes if aiming for investment-grade material.

• Use protective sleeves to prevent degradation.

• Verify serial number authenticity before purchase.

• Hold onto low serial or unique pattern notes — future values tend to rise.

• Track auctions for market trends on rare notes.

List of FAQs About 2022 Australian $100 Banknote

The 2022 Australian $100 banknote stands as the highest denomination in the country’s currency system, combining art, innovation, and national identity. Released by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) as part of its Next Generation Banknote (NGB) series, the note continues Australia’s reputation for producing some of the world’s most secure and durable banknotes. The 2022 series retains the familiar green color theme and pays tribute to two national icons — Dame Nellie Melba, the celebrated opera singer, and Sir John Monash, the brilliant engineer and military leader. This comprehensive FAQ guide provides detailed insights into the design, features, security, and collector value of the 2022 Australian $100 banknote, while ensuring full SEO optimization for readers interested in currency design, numismatics, and Australian financial heritage.

1. What is the 2022 Australian $100 banknote?

The 2022 Australian $100 banknote is part of the RBA’s Next Generation Banknote series, designed to improve durability, accessibility, and security against counterfeiting. While its design and core features were first introduced in 2020, the continued print runs in 2022 make these notes distinct in terms of serial numbers and collector relevance. It’s printed on polymer substrate, ensuring longevity and resilience against wear, water, and environmental damage.

2. Who is featured on the 2022 Australian $100 banknote?

Two of Australia’s most respected historical figures are depicted:

• Dame Nellie Melba — a pioneering Australian soprano and one of the world’s first international opera stars, representing Australia’s contribution to global arts and culture.

• Sir John Monash — an accomplished engineer, scholar, and military commander, symbolizing Australian innovation, leadership, and service.

Their inclusion highlights Australia’s blend of artistic and intellectual excellence.

3. When was the 2022 Australian $100 banknote issued?

Although the first of the new $100 notes appeared in 2020, the 2022 issues represent later print batches with updated serial numbers and continued distribution. These notes entered circulation throughout 2022, ensuring consistent replacement of older or damaged notes in the economy.

4. What is special about the 2022 design?

The 2022 banknote maintains the distinctive green tone but features refined modern elements including:

• A top-to-bottom transparent window with dynamic movement and color effects.

• Microtext featuring excerpts from Melba’s and Monash’s writings.

• A Masked Owl and Golden Wattle, connecting the note to Australia’s natural heritage.

• Rolling color effects on the large numeral “100” that shift when tilted.

• Tactile features for people with vision impairments.
  These updates make the note secure, visually engaging, and accessible.

5. Why did the Reserve Bank redesign the $100 note?

The redesign aimed to strengthen the anti-counterfeiting measures and improve usability for the visually impaired. The RBA’s Next Generation Banknote program ensures each denomination includes advanced technology while preserving familiar elements for easy recognition by the public.

6. What security features are on the 2022 $100 banknote?

To protect against forgery, the 2022 $100 note includes:

• Clear polymer window running vertically through the note.

• Flying bird and reversing number “100” when tilted.

• Color-changing ink that shifts shades as you move the note.

• See-through registration device forming a complete seven-pointed star.

• Microprinting of fine text visible under magnification.

• Fluorescent elements visible under UV light.

• Raised tactile printing on key design areas.
  These features combine aesthetics with advanced counterfeit deterrence.

7. What material is used for the 2022 Australian $100 banknote?

Like all Australian notes, it is printed on polymer substrate, a special form of durable plastic invented by the CSIRO and RBA in Australia. Polymer notes are cleaner, longer-lasting, and more environmentally friendly than traditional paper notes.

8. What accessibility features does the note include?

The $100 note features five raised tactile dots along its long edge to help blind or visually impaired individuals distinguish denominations. It also includes high-contrast colors and large, bold numerals for easier visual identification.

9. What are the dimensions of the 2022 $100 note?

The note measures 158mm in length and 65mm in width, identical to previous versions, ensuring compatibility with ATMs, vending machines, and other note-handling systems.

10. What color is the 2022 Australian $100 note?

The note continues the traditional green color scheme, associated with prosperity and stability. However, it features more vibrant and contrasting shades for better clarity and counterfeit detection.

11. Are older $100 notes still valid?

Yes. The RBA confirms that all previously issued $100 notes remain legal tender. Both old and new designs can be used interchangeably for payments and banking purposes.

12. How can I verify if a 2022 $100 note is genuine?

Check the following:

• Tilt the note to see the bird flying and the number 100 move in opposite directions.

• Feel for raised printing on Melba and Monash’s portraits.

• Inspect the transparent window — it should be part of the note, not glued on.

• Hold the note to light to see a seven-pointed star formed by the front and back images aligning perfectly.

• Under UV light, look for glowing features embedded within the note.

13. How does the note celebrate Dame Nellie Melba?

The front of the note portrays Melba with imagery from her performances, sheet music, and quotes from her autobiography Melodies and Memories. These design elements honor her pioneering career and global influence in music.

14. How is Sir John Monash represented on the banknote?

The reverse side features Monash with background images of engineering plans, the Shrine of Remembrance, and soldiers in the field, symbolizing his leadership and contributions to engineering and national development.

15. What animals and plants are featured on the 2022 $100 banknote?

The note highlights two Australian natural icons:

• Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha) — Australia’s national floral emblem.

• Masked Owl (Tyto novaehollandiae) — a native bird representing wisdom and vigilance.

These elements reflect Australia’s connection to nature and biodiversity.

16. What is the significance of the transparent window?

The top-to-bottom clear window is not only aesthetic but also a major security feature. It contains a color-shifting fan, a flying bird image, and a depiction of the wattle plant, all of which move or change when the note is tilted.

17. Are 2022 $100 notes considered rare?

At present, 2022 notes are in general circulation and not rare. However, uncirculated notes, special prefixes, or low serial numbers (e.g., AA22 or 000001) are sought after by collectors and may gain future value.

18. How long does a polymer $100 note last?

A polymer note can last 7–10 years in circulation, compared to 2–3 years for traditional paper notes. This longevity contributes to cost-effectiveness and reduced environmental impact.

19. How does the 2022 issue differ from earlier $100 notes?

While maintaining traditional portraits and color, the 2022 issue includes upgraded tactile marks, enhanced microtext, dynamic color shifts, and a clearer window design — all part of the NGB’s evolution in banknote security.

20. What is the counterfeiting rate for Australian $100 notes?

Australia has one of the world’s lowest counterfeit rates, thanks to the polymer technology and advanced security features. The RBA’s 2022 data shows a continued decline in counterfeit detections for high-denomination notes.

21. What is the economic role of the $100 note?

As the highest-value note, it plays an important role in large transactions, savings storage, and business cash reserves. Despite digital payment trends, demand for $100 notes remains steady across Australia.

22. How can collectors identify valuable 2022 $100 notes?

Collectors value notes with:

• Low or repeating serial numbers.

• AA or EA prefixes (first print runs).

• Uncirculated or mint condition notes.

• Special replacement issues (ZS prefixes).
  These details can raise the note’s collectible worth.

23. How should the note be stored safely?

Keep collectible notes in acid-free sleeves or archival binders, away from heat, sunlight, and moisture. Avoid folding or clipping them, as physical damage reduces collector value.

24. What cultural importance does the $100 note hold?

The $100 note represents Australia’s spirit of excellence, blending achievements in art, leadership, and technology. Through Melba and Monash, it celebrates creativity, resilience, and innovation — core values of modern Australia.

25. What happens if the note is damaged?

Damaged or partially torn notes can be exchanged at banks or the RBA. The value depends on the remaining portion — if more than half the note is intact, it’s redeemable for full value.

26. Is the 2022 Australian $100 banknote waterproof?

Yes. The polymer substrate is water-resistant, allowing the note to survive accidental washing or spills. However, extreme heat (over 120°C) can warp or damage it.

27. How can I report counterfeit or suspicious notes?

If you suspect a fake note, handle it carefully and report it to local police or the Reserve Bank of Australia. Do not return it to the person who handed it to you, and provide as much detail as possible.

28. Are there commemorative versions of the 2022 $100 note?

No official commemorative versions have been issued for 2022. However, collectors often classify specific print runs, prefixes, or serial-number ranges as special interest editions.

29. How does the 2022 note align with environmental sustainability?

Polymer notes are recyclable and have a significantly lower environmental footprint compared to paper notes. The RBA recycles old polymer notes into materials used for building and packaging industries.

30. Why is the 2022 $100 note significant to collectors and historians?

It represents the culmination of Australia’s banknote evolution, merging technological innovation with historical continuity. For collectors, it marks one of the final years of the NGB rollout, making it a historically meaningful addition.

31. Is the 2022 $100 note legal tender?

Yes. It is in full circulation and accepted nationwide.

32. Are AA22 or ZZ22 serial notes more valuable?

Yes. These are first and last prefixes, highly valued among collectors.

33. How do I know if my $100 note is rare?

Check for low serials, rare patterns, misprints, or special prefixes.

34. What is the rarest 2022 $100 note so far?

Likely specimen or solid number notes, fetching up to $2,000+.

35. Where can I get my note valued?

Consult certified numismatists or submit to online banknote grading services.

🔚 Conclusion

The 2022 Australian $100 note is more than a piece of currency—it is a story of Australian heritage, technological advancement, and artistic design. Whether you're a serious collector or an investor, understanding the value of serial numbers, prefixes, and note condition is essential.

With the right knowledge, even a note found in circulation could become a valuable asset in the future. As modern polymer banknotes continue to evolve, their collectible status is only set to increase.

The 2022 Australian $100 banknote perfectly combines Australia’s artistic heritage, technological leadership, and national pride. Through the portraits of Dame Nellie Melba and Sir John Monash, the note honors two figures who helped shape Australia’s identity in the arts and sciences. Its advanced polymer construction, tactile features, and security innovations ensure durability and authenticity in a digital age. Whether viewed from a financial, cultural, or numismatic perspective, the 2022 $100 note stands as a symbol of Australia’s commitment to excellence and innovation. For collectors, it also represents a milestone — the continued legacy of one of the world’s most secure and beautifully designed currencies.

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