The Evolution of Australia’s First Blue $10 Polymer Notes

Seasoned collectors often use terms that bamboozle the rest of us – “Blue Dobell” and “Grey Dobell” are two bits of insider lingo that polymer note collectors use to classify different types of Australia’s first blue ten dollar polymer notes.

These terms are used to describe the appearance of the standing portrait of Dame Mary Gilmour that is to the left of centre on the front of our first blue ten dollar polymer notes. That portrait was painted by Sir William Dobell, which explains the informal nickname granted by Mick Vort-Ronald back in 1999.

These terms are necessary because Australia’s first blue ten dollar notes were printed to last when they first entered circulation. I believe the  staff at Note Printing Australia (NPA) were so keen to ensure the notes remained in circulation for as long as possible it can be said they erred on the side of caution and looked to have used too much intaglio ink in the printing process.