$10 1966 - 1991 DETAILED REPORT...

• Series: First Decimal Issue (1966)
   
• Denomination: Ten Dollars ($10)
   
• Signatories: H.C. Coombs (Governor of the Reserve Bank) / Roland Wilson (Secretary to the Treasury)
   
• First Issued: 14 February 1966
   
• Designer: Gordon Andrews
   
• Printer: Note Printing Branch, Reserve Bank of Australia
   

• Obverse (Front):
  Features Francis Greenway, colonial architect, with imagery of early Australian architecture (St. James’ Church, Hyde Park Barracks).
   
  • Colour: Blue
     
  • Security Features: Watermark of Captain James Cook (in clear windowed watermark panel); metallic security thread
     
• Reverse (Back):
  Features Henry Lawson, Australian writer and poet, with rural bush scenes.
   
  • Colour: Blue
     
  • Notable Elements: Vignette of a swagman, Lawson’s likeness drawn from a photograph
     

• Size: 158 mm x 81 mm
   
• Material: Paper (pre-polymer era)
   
• Watermark: Captain James Cook (left side)
   
• Security Thread: Continuous thin metallic thread embedded
   

1. Commonwealth of Australia title (only on 1966 first issues — later replaced by "Australia" in 1974)
    
2. Serial Prefixes: AAA to approximately DSH (exact range dependent on print run specifics)
    
3. Serial Number Types:
    
   • First Prefix: AAA (highest collector premium)
      
   • Last Prefix: DSH (moderate premium)
      

• Catalogue Reference: Renniks (2025 Edition)
   
• Uncirculated Grade: Crisp, flat, no folds, original sheen
   
• Indicative Market Value (as of May 2025):
   
  • Standard Prefix: AUD $850–$1,300
     
  • First Prefix (AAA): AUD $2,500–$4,000+
     
  • Consecutive Pair/Run: 15–30% premium
     
  • Star Notes (a rare replacement note): AUD $5,000–$9,000+ (extremely scarce)
     

• Early decimal notes (1966) with Coombs–Wilson signature are highly desirable, especially in pristine UNC condition.
   
• Paper quality and note flatness (no handling marks) are critical for top grading.
   
• Authenticity verification should confirm watermark clarity, unbroken security thread, and vibrant print registration.

• Denomination: $10
   
• Issuing Authority: Reserve Bank of Australia
   
• Series Year: 1967
   
• Signatories: H.C. Coombs (Governor) / R.J. Randall (Secretary to the Treasury)
   
• Catalogue Reference: Renniks R303; Pick 41a
   
• Dimensions: 158 mm x 79 mm
   
• Material: Paper (pre-polymer era)
   
• Printer: Note Printing Branch (Melbourne)
   

• Obverse: Portrait of Francis Greenway, Colonial Architect; background includes St. James Church, Sydney, and Hyde Park Barracks
   
• Reverse: Portrait of Henry Lawson, iconic Australian writer and poet; scenes from The Drover’s Wife and The Ballad of the Drover
   
• Security Features (1967 standard):
   
  • Watermark: Captain James Cook portrait
     
  • Metallic security thread (imbedded)
     

• First and only year of Coombs/Randall signature pairing on the $10 paper note
   
• Low print run relative to later issues
   
• Highly sought after in Uncirculated (UNC) grade due to short signature series and transitional context (between decimal introduction and later notes)
   

• Uncirculated (UNC): AUD $2,500–$4,500+ (depending on centering, paper quality, serial number range, and provenance)
   
• Exceptional UNC examples (rare serials, superb eye appeal): up to AUD $6,000+
   

• Popular among decimal collectors as a "key" note
   
• Best serials: Star replacement notes, radar/palindromes, and first/last prefixes (e.g., ZZA/ZZA or ZRF/ZRF)
   
• Caution: Counterfeits and pressed notes exist — certification by PCGS Banknote or PMG advisable

• Denomination: $10
   
• Series: Commonwealth of Australia
   
• Issue Year: 1968
   
• Signatories: H.C. Coombs (Governor, Reserve Bank) / R.J. Randall (Secretary to the Treasury)
   
• Catalogue Reference: R303 (Renniks)
   

• Obverse:
  – Portrait of Francis Greenway, colonial architect
  – Background: Sydney’s St. James’ Church and Macquarie Lighthouse (his architectural works)
   
• Reverse:
  – Portrait of Henry Lawson, iconic Australian writer and poet
  – Background: Rural bush scene reflecting Lawson's literary themes
   
• Designer: Gordon Andrews (noted Australian graphic designer)
   

• Metallic security thread (windowed, running vertically left of centre)
   
• Watermark: Captain James Cook (visible when held to light)
   

• Dimensions: 158 mm × 81 mm
   
• Material: Cotton-based paper
   
• Printing: Intaglio and offset lithography
   
• Serial Prefix Range (Phillips/Randall): SAA – SFG
   

• Rarity: Moderately scarce in Uncirculated (UNC); earlier prefixes (e.g., SAA, SAB) carry premiums
   
• Indicative Market Value (UNC):
  – AU$400 – AU$800 (common prefixes)
  – AU$900 – AU$1,500+ (low/first prefixes, consecutive pairs, radar notes, or special serials)
   

• First $10 note with Phillips/Randall pairing (succeeded Phillips/Wheeler)
   
• Known for high-quality intaglio detail and vibrant blue colour
   
• Susceptible to toning and foxing — pristine UNC examples with strong embossing fetch premiums
   
• Increasing demand due to reduced supply of crisp UNC examples in the collector market
   

• Verify crispness, sharp corners, and unbroken security thread
   
• Look for no handling marks, folds, or paper waves (true UNC)
   
• Check strong embossing from intaglio print (raised ink texture)

• Denomination: $10
   
• Year of Issue: 1972
   
• Signatories: Phillips / Wheeler (J.G. Phillips — Governor; F.H. Wheeler — Secretary to the Treasury)
   
• Series Duration: 1972–1977
   
• Legal Tender: Commonwealth of Australia (pre-1974 wording; later changed to “Australia” in 1974)
   

• Obverse (Front):
   
  • Portrait: Francis Greenway (Convict architect)
     
  • Imagery: Old Government House, Parramatta; design drawings and buildings
     
  • Designer: Gordon Andrews
     
• Reverse (Back):
   
  • Portrait: Henry Lawson (Australian writer & poet)
     
  • Imagery: Scenes from Lawson’s life — drovers, bush huts, and country towns
     
  • Designer: Gordon Andrews
     
• Dimensions: 167 mm × 78 mm
   
• Colour Scheme: Blue and orange tones
   

• Metal security thread (continuous)
   
• Watermark of Captain James Cook (visible when held to light)
   

• Condition Focus: Uncirculated (UNC) — crisp, no folds, no handling marks
   
• Catalogue Value (approx.):
   
  • UNC: AUD $200 – $500 (depending on serial number and margin quality)
     
• Serial Prefix Range (Phillips/Wheeler 1972):
   
  • Prefixes starting with SAA to SCB
     
• Rare Variants:
   
  • First & last prefix notes attract premiums
     
  • Star replacement notes (denoted by a “*” in serial) — extremely rare and highly valuable
     

• The Phillips/Wheeler pair is the last to feature “Commonwealth of Australia” on the $10 note before it changed to just “Australia” in 1974
   
• Transitional note in Australian banknote history — collectors prize these for historical significance
   
• Crisp margins and full original colour are crucial for top-tier UNC valuation
   
• Lower serial numbers (000001–000100) and radar notes (palindromic serials) can command higher prices

• Denomination: $10
   
• Issue Year: 1974
   
• Signatories: J.G. Phillips (Governor, Reserve Bank) & F.H. Wheeler (Secretary to the Treasury)
   
• Series: Commonwealth of Australia
   
• Obverse Title: "Australia" (pre-1974 notes used "Commonwealth of Australia")
   
• Catalogue Reference: Renniks R308a
   

Obverse (Front)Reverse (Back)Portrait of Francis Greenway (colonial architect)Portrait of Henry Lawson (poet & writer)Colonial period buildings, St. James’ Church, SydneyOutback rural scene + swagman & bush landscapeDesigner: Gordon Andrews (noted industrial designer)Designer: Gordon Andrews 

• Primary Colours: Blue-grey base with multicoloured underprint
   
• Watermark: Captain James Cook (visible when held to light)
   
• Security Features:
   
  • Metallic security thread (embedded vertically)
     
  • Fine multi-colour printing
     
  • Watermark (Cook)
     
  • Intaglio raised print
     

• Dimensions: 158 mm x 79 mm
   
• Material: Paper (cotton-based, pre-polymer era)
   
• Printer: Note Printing Branch, Reserve Bank of Australia
   
• Serial Number Prefixes:
   
  • General circulation: RZL – SZZ
     
  • First Prefix (premium): RZL
     
  • Last Prefix (premium): SZZ
     

• Crisp, clean, and sharp with no folds, creases, bends, stains, or handling marks
   
• Perfect corners and bright original colours
   
• Full embossing from intaglio print detectable
   

Prefix TypeMarket Value (AUD)CommentsCommon Prefix UNC$170 – $250Standard serialsFirst/Last Prefix UNC$350 – $600+RZL & SZZ desirableStar Note UNC$1500+Very rare (replacements) 

Note: Prices vary based on exact serial number, paper quality, embossing strength, and collector demand. Values sourced from 2025 auction data and updated Renniks Australian Coin & Banknote Guide.
 

• Significance: First $10 note with "Australia" title only (removal of "Commonwealth of Australia").
   
• Market Demand: High among collectors of pre-polymer decimal notes & signature set completists
   
• Investment Grade: Strong for UNC examples, especially First/Last prefix and Star notes
   
• Preservation: Store flat in acid-free sleeves, away from UV and moisture

• Denomination: $10
   
• Issue Year: 1976
   
• Signatories: R.A. (Ralph) Knight (Governor), J.G. (John) Wheeler (Secretary to the Treasury)
   
• Prefix Range:
   
  • Common: LDP–LDZ
     
  • Z Prefix (ZLD): Test note (rare)
     
• Catalogue Reference: Renniks R-306
   

FeatureFront (Obverse)Back (Reverse)Primary PortraitFrancis Greenway (Colonial Architect)Henry Lawson (Writer & Poet)Key ImageryBuilding designs: St. James' Church & Hyde Park Barracks, SydneyRural bush scene, swagman, and Lawson poetry referencesDesignerGordon AndrewsGordon AndrewsSecurity FeaturesMetal security thread (windowed in later notes, fully embedded in this series)Micro-printing, watermark of Captain James CookWatermarkCaptain James CookCaptain James Cook  

• Dimensions: 155 mm x 80 mm
   
• Paper Type: Cotton fibre
   
• Color Scheme: Blue & orange hues predominating (distinctive from earlier Coombs/Wilson issues)
   
• Serial Number Type: Horizontal black numerals, variable fonts possible
   
• Printer: Note Printing Branch, Reserve Bank of Australia, Craigieburn, VIC
   

GradeMarket Value (AUD, estimate)Key NotesUncirculated (UNC)$300 – $450Higher end for first/last prefix or exceptional centeringGem UNC (Superb)$500 – $700+Premiums for consecutive pairs, radar/repeater serialsTest Note (ZLD)$4,000 – $7,000+Extremely scarce 

Market Trends:

• Steady demand due to lower surviving UNC quantities.
   
• Test note (ZLD) particularly chased by advanced collectors.
   
• Condition sensitivity — minor handling can greatly impact value.
   

• Watermark sharpness (Captain Cook head, RH side on obverse).
   
• Consistent, crisp intaglio print — rich texture under light.
   
• Clean, unworn corners and no handling marks in true UNC.

• Denomination: $10
   
• Series Year: 1983
   
• Signatories: Johnston / Stone
   
• Catalogue Reference: R309 (Renniks Australian Coin and Banknote Values)
   
• First Issued: 1983
   
• Last Issued: 1988 (predecessor to polymer $10 in 1988)
   

FeatureObverse (Front)Reverse (Back)Main PortraitFrancis Greenway (Colonial Architect)Henry Lawson (Poet and Short Story Writer)Background ElementsGreenway’s architectural works (St James' Church, Sydney)Lawson’s bush scenes, swagman, and poem excerptsPrimary ColourBlueBlueDimensions155 mm × 78 mm—Paper TypeCotton-based with metallic security thread—  

• Metallic windowed security thread (embedded vertically)
   
• Watermark: Captain James Cook (visible when held to light)
   
• Fine-line intaglio printing and micro-text
   

• R.A. Johnston (Governor, Reserve Bank of Australia)
   
• J.G. Stone (Secretary to the Treasury)
   

• Range: CGA to DGC
   
• Format: Three-letter prefix + six numerals
   
• Serial number ink: Black (OCR-B font)
   

UNC = Crisp, uncirculated, original banknote with no handling marks.

GradeMarket Value (approx.) AUDUncirculated (UNC)$100 – $160Choice UNC / GEM UNCUp to $200+ (for rare prefixes / superb quality) 

Note: Prices influenced by prefix rarity, serial number pattern (e.g., low number or repeaters), and eye appeal.
 

• Common signature combination, though still sought after in high UNC grades
   
• Higher value for first (CGA) and last (DGC) prefixes
   
• Scarcity increases for solid numbers, radar numbers, and special serials
   

• UNC examples with standard prefixes average $120–150
   
• Choice/GEM UNC with rare serials reached $180–220
   
• Crisp presentation and strong embossing command premiums

The 1985 Australian $10 paper banknote, featuring the signatures of R. Johnston (Reserve Bank of Australia Governor) and C. Fraser (Secretary to the Treasury), is a highly sought-after item for collectors, especially in uncirculated condition. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Obverse (Front):
   
  • Portrait: The front features a portrait of Sir John Monash, an Australian general and engineer, best known for his leadership during World War I.
     
  • Watermark: The watermark is a portrait of Sir John Monash.
     
  • Color Scheme: Dominant colors are orange and purple.
     
  • Security Features: Incorporates a security thread, microprinting, and ultraviolet-reactive ink for authenticity.
     
• Reverse (Back):
   
  • Illustration: The reverse of the note showcases a stylized depiction of the Parliament House in Canberra, with a background featuring elements related to Australia’s scientific achievements, including a stylized design of an electron microscope.
     
  • Design Elements: The design is complemented by geometric patterns, representing Australia's technological progress.
     

• Robert Johnston: As the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia at the time, Johnston’s signature appears on the note.
   
• C. Fraser: The Secretary to the Treasury’s signature is also found on the note, a required signature for the legal validity of the currency.
   

• The 1985 series was part of the "First Series" of polymer notes issued by the Reserve Bank of Australia. It marked a significant step in the Australian currency system as the country moved towards more secure and durable polymer banknotes.
   
• The $10 note replaced earlier versions featuring Francis Greenway and Mary Reibey, marking a shift towards more modern depictions of historical figures.
   

• In uncirculated (UNC) condition, the note shows no signs of wear, folds, or creases. The colors remain vivid, and the paper remains crisp and clean.
   
• Uncirculated notes are highly prized by collectors because they are in pristine condition and retain their original, untouched quality. In contrast, circulated notes may have creases, fading, or other wear from handling.
   

• The 1985 Johnston/Fraser $10 note in uncirculated condition holds considerable value due to its rarity and historical significance.
   
• Its value can vary, depending on factors like the note’s condition, rarity of the serial number, and current market demand.
   
  • Price Range: Generally, the uncirculated version of this note can range anywhere from AUD $50 to AUD $100, though rare serial numbers or notes with special characteristics can fetch higher prices at auction.
     
• Notes from the 1985 series are considered a significant part of Australia's numismatic history, particularly because they represent a transition to more secure banknotes.
   

• Grading: A note in uncirculated condition typically earns a grade of "Uncirculated (UNC)" in official numismatic grading scales. Factors like crispness, color, and lack of blemishes are key to achieving this grade.
   
• Storage: It’s crucial to store such a note in a protective sleeve or acid-free holder to prevent environmental factors like moisture, UV light, and physical handling from degrading its quality.
   

• Interest in the 1985 Johnston/Fraser $10 banknote has increased over the years as more collectors focus on Australian paper currency.
   
• As the note is part of the historic shift from paper to polymer notes in Australia, it is also valuable to collectors interested in the history of Australian currency design.
   

The 1985 Australian $10 paper banknote with the Johnston/Fraser signatures is an important collectible for anyone interested in Australian numismatics, especially those focusing on paper currency before the shift to polymer notes. In uncirculated condition, it remains a prized piece due to its significance in Australian history, design, and the rarity of such pristine examples

The 1989 Australian Fraser/Higgins $10 paper banknote, issued by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), is a significant piece in Australia's banknote history. Here’s a detailed report:

• Obverse (Front):
   
  • The note features a portrait of Horace P. Fraser, who was the First Secretary of the Treasury. Fraser’s likeness was used as part of the RBA’s decision to feature influential Australians on currency notes.
     
  • The design includes stylized representations of Australia’s national identity and symbols of Australia's historical and cultural significance.
     
  • Holographic elements were introduced for the first time in this series as part of the anti-counterfeiting measures. The note also had a windowed security thread with the word “Australia” visible through it.
     
• Reverse (Back):
   
  • The reverse features a portrait of John H. Higgins, who was the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia during the time of this issue.
     
  • This side features imagery related to Australian architecture and national landmarks, designed to represent Australia's modern and historical heritage.
     
  • Color-shifting ink was used for certain elements on the reverse side as an additional anti-counterfeiting feature.
     
• Size:
   
  • The 1989 $10 note measures 150 mm x 65 mm, slightly larger than modern polymer notes.
     

• Watermark: The banknote includes a watermark of Horace Fraser's portrait, visible when the note is held up to the light.
   
• Security Thread: A metallic thread is embedded in the note, visible when held to the light, and it shifts color when tilted.
   
• Color-Shifting Ink: The banknote’s design features ink that changes color depending on the angle of light.
   
• Microprinting: Fine text was printed to make counterfeiting more difficult.
   

• The 1989 $10 note was part of the last paper banknotes issued by Australia before the transition to polymer notes in 1992. This series was produced in limited quantities, with the higher denominations being especially sought after by collectors.
   
• It was printed by the Reserve Bank of Australia and produced in extremely limited runs compared to later polymer issues, contributing to its scarcity and high value in uncirculated condition.
   

• An uncirculated banknote refers to one that has never been used in daily transactions. This means it is free from folds, creases, and marks, and is in pristine condition, often as it was when it left the printing press.
   
• Uncirculated notes are highly sought after by collectors, especially in the case of older notes such as the 1989 $10 paper note. The demand for these notes can be influenced by the note’s rarity, its age, and the historical significance of the figures featured on it.
   

• In uncirculated condition, the 1989 Fraser/Higgins $10 paper banknote has become a highly sought-after collector's item. Its value in the market is primarily driven by factors like condition, rarity, and demand.
   
• As of recent auctions, uncirculated examples can fetch anywhere from AUD 50 to AUD 100 or more, depending on the specific quality and rarity within certain collector circles. Higher-quality notes or notes with special serial numbers (such as low numbers or sequential numbers) can command even higher prices.
   

• The 1989 issue was part of the Fifth Series of Australian banknotes, which was the last series to be issued in paper format before the introduction of polymer notes. The introduction of polymer notes marked a significant shift in the Australian currency system, with enhanced durability and more advanced security features.
   
• Horace Fraser and John Higgins were key figures in the Australian financial system during the late 20th century, which contributes to the significance of the 1989 $10 note.
   

• While no longer in circulation, the 1989 Fraser/Higgins $10 paper banknote remains a valuable piece of numismatic history and is a key note for collectors of Australian paper money.
   
• It holds an important place in the evolution of Australia's currency system, being part of the transition from paper to polymer, which continues to shape the country's modern banknotes.
   

In conclusion, the 1989 Fraser/Higgins $10 paper banknote in uncirculated condition represents a significant part of Australia's currency evolution, marked by its unique design, security features, and historical context. For collectors, it remains an essential part of any Australian banknote collection.

The 1991 Australian Fraser/Cole $10 paper banknote is an important piece in the history of Australian currency. Here's a detailed report on the banknote in an uncirculated condition:

The 1991 $10 banknote is part of the second series of Australian banknotes, known as the "Floral Series," and features a polymer construction. It is commonly associated with the signatures of the Treasurer of Australia, Paul Keating, and the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Bernie Fraser, from whom it gets its name (Fraser/Cole).

This note, issued in 1991, was designed to replace the previous $10 note, which was part of the first series of Australian banknotes.

1. Obverse (Front):
    
   • Portrait: The note features a portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, as was common in many Australian banknotes during the era. This image was used in homage to her role as the Queen of Australia.
      
   • Security Features:
      
     • Watermark with a stylized $10.
        
     • A transparent window with intricate security features, such as microprinting and a metallic strip.
        
   • Text and Symbols: The banknote includes various symbols of Australian culture, including images associated with Australia's history, flora, and fauna.
      

1. Reverse (Back):
    
   • Depiction of Australian Flora and Fauna: The reverse side features a stylized image of Australian flora, with elements like wattle flowers and other native plants.
      
   • Historical Theme: Some versions of the $10 note featured scenes associated with the country’s early European settlement and later economic development.
      
   • Security Features: The reverse features additional security elements like fine-line printing and unique patterns designed to deter counterfeiting.
      

• Uncirculated Condition: An uncirculated 1991 $10 banknote will have no folds, creases, or signs of wear. The edges will be sharp, and the colors will remain vibrant and free from discoloration. There will be no ink smudging, staining, or other defects.
   
• Rarity and Demand: Given that Australian currency is often withdrawn and replaced, uncirculated notes from this series, especially those from earlier years, are highly sought after by collectors. This particular note, with its clean appearance and preservation, can attract a premium in the market.
   

• The value of an uncirculated 1991 $10 Fraser/Cole banknote in today's market can range widely based on collector demand, condition, and rarity. Typically, uncirculated notes from this series might range from $25 to $100 AUD or more, depending on market conditions and availability.
   

The 1991 Fraser/Cole $10 paper banknote is a notable piece in Australian numismatic history. Its uncirculated version is highly prized by collectors for its pristine condition and the historical significance of the figures depicted. It is a key part of Australia's currency evolution, moving from earlier paper notes to more advanced polymer series in subsequent years.

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