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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

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Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was 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

Portraits of Value

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Prominent identities have been depicted on Australia’s banknotes with portraits by eminent artists. Learn more about the role of portraiture in the Museum’s new video.

Artist Guy Warren with his portrait of John Macarthur.

First Nations Peoples and Australian Banknotes

ONLINE FEATURE

Learn how the depictions of First Nations people and culture on our banknotes have evolved over time.

First Nations design elements used on the $50 banknote

On the Money

ONLINE FEATURE

Did you know that there are convicts on Australia’s banknotes? Discover the story of Francis Greenway, a convict who helped to build New South Wales.

Animation still of Francis Greenway

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.