Basic Data:
Country ISO Code: AU
Official Language: English
Language ISO Code: en
Current Official Currency: Australian Dollar
Current Currency ISO Code: AUD
Complete Financial History of the Australian Dollar:
Official Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Currency ISO Code: AUD
Designs / Symbols: Coins feature images of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and native Australian fauna and flora on the reverse; banknotes depict notable Australian figures, cultural symbols, and native animals. The currency symbol is "$" or "A$" to distinguish it from other dollar currencies.
Singular Name: dollar
Plural Name: dollars
Monetary Subdivision: 1 dollar = 100 cents
Fraction Name Singular: cent
Fraction Name Plural: cents
Initial Production Date: 1966 (decimal currency introduced)
End Production Date: still in circulation
Initial Circulation Date: 14 February 1966
End Circulation Date: still in circulation
Mint: Royal Australian Mint (established 1965), Canberra
Issuing Bank: Reserve Bank of Australia
Coin Denominations Currently Minted: 5, 10, 20, 50 cents; 1 and 2 dollars
Banknote Denominations Currently Issued: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 dollars
Historical and Economic Context:
Prior to Federation in 1901, six Australian colonies had separate currencies modeled on the British system, exchangeable one-to-one.
The Australian pound was introduced in 1910, pegged at par to the British pound sterling, divided into 20 shillings and 240 pence.
In 1931, the Australian pound was devalued by 25% relative to the British pound.
Decimalisation was adopted on 14 February 1966, replacing the Australian pound with the Australian dollar at a rate of 2 dollars = 1 pound.
The Reserve Bank of Australia introduced polymer banknotes in 1988, enhancing durability and security against counterfeiting.
The Australian dollar is among the world’s most traded currencies, influenced by commodity exports and economic ties with Asia, particularly China.
The currency has experienced fluctuations but remains stable, supported by Australia’s strong political and economic systems.
Mints / Production Locations:
The Royal Australian Mint in Canberra is the sole producer of Australian coins.
Banknotes are printed by Note Printing Australia, a subsidiary of the Reserve Bank of Australia.
Designs / Symbols on Coins and Banknotes:
Coins feature Queen Elizabeth II’s effigy on the obverse and Australian native animals (e.g., kangaroo, lyrebird) on the reverse.
Banknotes display portraits of prominent Australians, native wildlife, and cultural motifs, with advanced security features.
Mintages / Quantities / Honorees and Signatures:
Coin and banknote designs have evolved, with commemorative issues released for national events and anniversaries.
Banknotes bear signatures of the Governor and Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia.
Curiosities / Commemorative Coins:
Australia issues commemorative coins in precious metals for collectors, celebrating historical events, cultural icons, and national achievements.
Current Circulation Status:
The Australian dollar is the official currency of Australia and several Pacific island nations and is actively circulated.
Issuing Authority:
The Reserve Bank of Australia is the sole issuer of banknotes and regulator of monetary policy.
Relevant Monetary Legislation:
Currency Act 1965 established the Australian dollar and its decimal system.
Reserve Bank Act 1959 governs the Reserve Bank’s functions.
Names and Titles on Banknotes:
Banknotes are signed by the Governor and Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia.
Persons Honored on Coins and Banknotes:
Notable Australians such as Dame Nellie Melba, Banjo Paterson, Mary Reibey, and David Unaipon appear on banknotes.
Coins feature native animals and symbols of Australian heritage.
Summary of Coins and Banknotes Currently in Circulation:
Type | Denominations in Circulation |
---|---|
Coins | 5, 10, 20, 50 cents; 1, 2 dollars |
Banknotes | 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 dollars |
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the Australian dollar’s financial history, highlighting its introduction in 1966, evolution, design features, and current status as a stable and widely used currency.
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