1974 $20 Phillips/Wheeler R405 Banknote – PCGS Choice UNC 63 PPQ

A high-grade example of Australia’s iconic 1974 Twenty Dollar banknote, professionally authenticated and graded by PCGS Banknote as Choice Uncirculated 63 PPQ.

Issued by the Reserve Bank of Australia and bearing the J.G. Phillips & F.H. Wheeler signature combination, this issue marked the change from the earlier “COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA” heading to simply “AUSTRALIA”.

Featuring pioneering Australian aviator Sir Charles Kingsford Smith on the obverse and aviation pioneer Lawrence Hargrave on the reverse, the $20 remains one of the most recognisable designs of Australia’s paper decimal era.

Details:

• Country: Australia
• Denomination: $20
• Issue: 1974
• Renniks: R405
• Pick: P-46a
• Signatures: J.G. Phillips / F.H. Wheeler
• Serial Number: XHB 566424
• Grade: PCGS Choice UNC 63 PPQ
• PPQ: Premium Paper Quality
• PCGS Certification: 621834.63/46092447

The XHB prefix falls within the regular XGS–XLG prefix range, rather than being one of the premium first/last prefixes. Current Australian market data puts ordinary-prefix 1974 Phillips/Wheeler UNC notes substantially above later $20 paper issues, while a raw UNC R405 has previously sold at auction for $300. 

An excellent certified example for collectors building a high-grade Australian decimal banknote collection, with the added desirability of the PPQ designation.

The exact banknote pictured is the banknote you will receive.

Please note: A vertical line/bend is visible through the portrait area of the banknote. This is clearly visible in the listing photographs and has been taken into consideration in the PCGS-assigned grade of Choice Uncirculated 63 PPQ. Please review all photographs carefully prior to purchase