1982 Australia $1 Banknote – Queen Elizabeth II & Indigenous Art | Rare Collectible Currency

This 1982 Australia $1 banknote (P‑42 / P‑42c) is a sought‑after piece of Australian currency history, issued by the Reserve Bank during the final decade of paper one‑dollar notes. Produced from 1974 to 1984, this standard circulation banknote combines a distinguished portrait of Queen Elizabeth II with culturally significant Aboriginal artwork by David Malangi, making it a standout collectible for numismatists and heritage enthusiasts.

Issuer and Specifications

Issuer: Australia
Issuing Bank: Reserve Bank
Type: Standard circulation banknotes
Years of Issue: 1974–1984
Value: 1 Dollar (1 AUD ≈ GBP 0.53)
Currency: Australian Dollar (1966–present)
Composition: Paper
Size: 140 × 70 mm
Shape: Rectangular
Watermark: Captain James Cook

Obverse Design

The obverse features Queen Elizabeth II (1952–2022) wearing the Order of the Garter mantle, accompanied by the Royal Australian Coat of Arms. The design uses dark grey on yellow, tan, and orange print with black serial numbers. Script is Latin.

Lettering includes: AUSTRALIA ONE DOLLAR THIS AUSTRALIAN NOTE IS LEGAL TENDER THROUGHOUT AUSTRALIA AND ITS TERRITORIES

Reverse Design

The reverse displays “Cérémonie funéraire (for Gurrmirringu)” by David Malangi, incorporating traditional Aboriginal motifs and cultural symbolism. Printed in dark grey on yellow and orange with Latin script and the lettering AUSTRALIA.

Catalogue References

P# 42, P# 42c
TBB# 210
Renniks# R75–R78
SP22
N#202381

Why Collect This Note

This 1982 $1 banknote appeals to collectors for its royal portrait, Indigenous artwork, and its place in Australia’s transition from paper notes to coinage. It also makes a meaningful birth‑year gift and a valuable addition to any Australian currency collection.