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A composite image of Parliament House and a drawing of Parliament House on the $5 banknote

Exploring Australian Banknotes

ONLINE FEATURE

The Museum showcases a comprehensive collection of Australia's banknote currency, representing every national banknote that has been issued, including rare, historical examples. The banknotes are described within their social and economic context in an accessible series of Pocket Guides.

Queen Elizabeth II

ONLINE FEATURE

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is the longest reigning monarch in British history. Her portrait has been represented in every Australian banknote series since her coronation, reflecting Australia's constitutional monarchy.

Three portraits of Queen Elizabeth II from the 1950s, 1960s and 1980s

First Nations Peoples and Australian Banknotes

ONLINE FEATURE

During the past century, the depiction of First Nations peoples and culture on our banknotes has evolved towards better awareness of their independent identities and histories.

First Nations design elements used on the $50 banknote

Microprinting

ONLINE FEATURE

Take a closer look at Australia's banknotes and discover hidden stories about our history and its people.

Microprint on a $50 banknote being viewed through a magnifying glass

Unreserved

RESERVE BANK OF AUSTRALIA ARCHIVES

The Reserve Bank has a unique and rich archives. In addition to records about the nation's central bank, our archives contain records about Australia's economic, financial and social history over nearly 200 years.

The Reserve Bank of Australia building at night

Visit

The Museum is currently closed due to the Head Office refurbishment. It is scheduled to reopen in the first half of 2023. Additional online resources are available.