1989 Australia 10 Dollar Banknote (P-45e) – A Tribute to Conviction, Creativity, and Colonial Architecture
The 1989 Australia 10 Dollar banknote (Pick 45e) is a compelling blend of historical figures and national symbolism. Issued by the Reserve Bank of Australia, this paper note features two icons of Australian identity: convict-turned-architect Francis Greenway and celebrated poet Henry Lawson. It’s a richly detailed piece that captures the spirit of Australia’s colonial past and cultural evolution.
Historical Context
This note belongs to the final years of Australia’s paper currency era before the transition to polymer in 1993. It was part of the 1974–1991 series and reflects the country’s effort to honor both its penal origins and literary legacy. With its dual portraits and architectural motifs, the 1989 issue stands out as a tribute to resilience and creativity.
Key Specifications
Feature Details
Pick Number P-45e
Denomination 10 Australian Dollars
Material Paper
Issuing Authority Reserve Bank of Australia
Size 155 × 78 mm
Printer Note Printing Australia, Melbourne
Watermark Captain James Cook RN
Security Thread Embedded metallic thread
Signatories Johnston / Fraser
Date of Issue 1989
Demonetized Withdrawn from circulation in 1993
Design Elements
Obverse (Front):
Portrait of Francis Greenway, colonial architect
Background features buildings he designed, including Hyde Park Barracks
Lettering: “Australia Ten Dollars – This Australian Note is Legal Tender Throughout Australia and Its Territories”
Reverse (Back):
Portrait of Henry Lawson, iconic bush poet
Scenes from Gulgong, New South Wales—a gold rush town central to Lawson’s work
Depicts rural life, mateship, and hardship in the Australian outback
Security Features
Watermark: Captain James Cook RN
Security Thread: Metallic thread embedded vertically
UV Elements: Select areas fluoresce under ultraviolet light
Collector Appeal
This note is prized for its cultural depth and historical resonance. It’s ideal for:
Collectors of Australian pre-polymer banknotes
Fans of colonial architecture and literature
Individuals born in 1989 seeking a birth-year note
Why Collect the 1989 Australia 10 Dollar Note?
This banknote is more than legal tender—it’s a narrative in paper. From Greenway’s convict redemption to Lawson’s poetic legacy, the note captures Australia’s journey through hardship, creativity, and national pride. Whether for display, education, or investment, it remains a meaningful artifact of Australia’s identity.
