1985 Australia $2 Banknote – John Macarthur & William Farrer | Rare Collectible Currency
This 1985 Australia $2 banknote (P‑43 / P‑43e) represents the final era of Australia’s paper two‑dollar notes before their withdrawal and replacement by the $2 coin. Issued by the Reserve Bank and designed by Gordon Andrews, this note highlights two influential figures in Australia’s agricultural history: John Macarthur and William Farrer. Its detailed engraving, vibrant green‑blue‑yellow palette, and classic paper composition make it a highly desirable collectible for numismatists and Australian heritage enthusiasts.
Issuer and Specifications
Issuer: Australia
Issuing Bank: Reserve Bank
Type: Standard circulation banknotes
Years of Issue: 1974–1985
Value: 2 Dollars (2 AUD ≈ GBP 1.06)
Currency: Australian Dollar (1966–present)
Composition: Paper
Size: 145 × 72.5 mm
Shape: Rectangular
Number: N#202384
References: P# 43, TBB# 211
Obverse Design
The obverse features a detailed portrait of John Macarthur, a key figure in the development of Australia’s wool industry, alongside a Merino ram at centre. The design is printed in green, blue, and yellow tones, with a Captain James Cook watermark at left. Script is Latin.
Lettering includes: AUSTRALIA TWO DOLLARS MACARTHUR GOVERNOR, RESERVE BANK OF AUSTRALIA. SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY THIS AUSTRALIAN NOTE IS LEGAL TENDER THROUGHOUT AUSTRALIA AND ITS TERRITORIES
Designer: Gordon Andrews
Reverse Design
The reverse depicts William Farrer, renowned for his pioneering work in wheat breeding, with a central wheat motif symbolising Australia’s agricultural strength. The colour scheme mirrors the obverse with green, blue, and yellow print. The Captain James Cook watermark appears at right. Script is Latin.
Lettering: AUSTRALIA
Designer: Gordon Andrews
Why Collect This Note
The 1985 $2 banknote is valued for its historical significance, agricultural themes, and its place as one of the final paper notes of its denomination. It appeals to collectors of Australian currency, agricultural history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a meaningful piece of pre‑decimal‑era design evolution.
