The Australian paper $100 note was first issued on 26 March 1984 by the Reserve Bank of Australia and was the final denomination introduced in Australia’s original decimal paper banknote series. The concept design was created by Harry Williamson and followed the earlier decimal banknotes designed by Gordon Andrews.
The front of the note features Sir Douglas Mawson, the renowned Australian Antarctic explorer and geologist, accompanied by imagery representing Antarctica. The reverse features John Tebbutt, the Australian astronomer, together with his observatory at Windsor, New South Wales. The overall theme of the design reflects Australian exploration and scientific achievement.
The note measures approximately 172 × 82.5 mm and incorporates a watermark of Captain James Cook as a security feature. Serial numbers were printed in black and blue.
Four signature combinations were issued during the life of the paper $100 note: Johnston–Stone (1984), Johnston–Fraser (1985), Fraser–Higgins (1990), and Fraser–Cole (1992). Collectors generally distinguish these issues by their signature combinations, serial-number prefixes and varieties, with particular interest in recognised first and last prefixes and notes in high grades.
The paper $100 remained Australia’s highest-denomination banknote until it was superseded by the polymer $100 series. Today, surviving paper $100 notes are collected according to their issue, signatures, prefix, serial number and condition.
