10 shillings= 1/2 pounds 1939

Common. Despite its age, this note is readily available in the secondary market. eBay sales data shows consistent regular trading at modest prices ($15-25 for VF condition in recent years), with numerous examples appearing in auctions. The 2016 catalog value of $350 for VF appears inflated compared to actual realized prices; current market activity suggests a more modest valuation around $15-25 for VF. The print run for this 1939-1952 issue was substantial, and surviving examples are plentiful relative to demand.

Issued during the reign of King George VI (1936-1952), this note reflects Australia's Commonwealth status and economic focus on manufacturing during the pre-World War II era. The allegorical 'Manufactures' design on the reverse celebrates industrial and labor output, symbolizing Australia's developing manufacturing sector in the late 1930s. The note represents the currency system prior to Australia's 1966 decimalization, when pounds, shillings, and pence were the standard denominations.

The obverse features a portrait of King George VI positioned on the right side in formal profile facing right, rendered in fine detail within the note's classical design framework. The reverse depicts an allegorical representation of 'Manufactures' showing multiple classical figures (both male and female) engaged in industrial and manufacturing work around a central table or workbench, symbolizing industrial progress and labor. Both sides feature ornate scalloped decorative borders and elaborate oval frames. The color scheme is predominantly reddish-brown and cream with orange-red accents throughout. Fine line engraving and intricate geometric background patterns serve as both design and security elements. The watermark features Captain Cook (as noted in reference data), appropriate to Australia's historical identity.

FRONT SIDE: 'COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA' (header); '10/-' and 'TEN SHILLINGS' (denomination indicators); 'The sole legal tender for TEN SHILLINGS in the Commonwealth and in all Territories under the control of the Commonwealth' (legal tender declaration); 'GOVERNOR COMMONWEALTH BANK OF AUSTRALIA' and signature 'H.Sheehan' (Governor's authorization); 'SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY' and signature 'B.B.Falane' (Treasury Secretary's authorization); 'F 22 127976' (serial number). BACK SIDE: '10/-' (denomination in oval frame); 'MANUFACTURES' (design title); 'TEN SHILLINGS' (denomination text).

Intaglio engraving (line engraving and copperplate printing), evidenced by the fine detail lines, complex cross-hatching, and deep impression characteristics visible in the allegorical scenes and portrait. The intricate geometric background patterns and decorative borders are typical of high-security banknote engraving from this era. This printing method was standard for Commonwealth Bank of Australia notes of this period and provided both aesthetic appeal and security against counterfeiting.

This note is identified as Pick P-25a, one of four cataloged varieties (P-25a through P-25d) distinguished by watermark variants. P-25a features the Captain Cook watermark (confirmed in this specimen). The serial number F 22 127976 indicates this note was from an early printing run. The signatures visible (H.Sheehan as Governor and B.B.Falane as Secretary to the Treasury) should be cross-referenced with the specific issue period to confirm the exact printing era within the 1939-1952 range, as signature combinations changed with official appointments.