AUD to USD Exchange Rate

The lowdown on the US dollar

The US dollar (USD) is one of the world’s most widely used and traded currencies. It’s the official currency of the United States and a key benchmark in global markets.

The dollar’s origins stretch back to the late 1700s, but the word itself comes from fifteenth-century Europe. Early English colonists in North America borrowed the name from the large Spanish silver coins that were already popular in the new world.

US dollar notes feature famous presidents like Abraham Lincoln and JFK, but only one woman has ever appeared—the original First Lady, Martha Washington.

Quick facts about the USD

• Dollar bills are nicknamed “greenbacks” due to its iconic colour.
• Printed using a cotton-linen blend—giving it a distinct texture.
• Around 45% of all US bills in circulation are $1 notes.
• A $1 bill lasts about 22 months before it’s replaced

A look back at Australian dollar to US dollar rates

The AUD was first pegged to the US dollar in 1973 at a rate of AU$1 = US$1.4875. This peg ended in 1983, and since then, the AUD/USD exchange rate has floated freely—rising and falling with market conditions.

Notable highs and lows

• 1988: AUD peaked at $0.881 USD
• 2001: Dropped to a low of $0.477 USD
• 2008: Recovered to around $0.98 USD
• 2010–2011: USD briefly fell below parity with the AUD. At its strongest, 1 AUD = $1.108 USD
• 2015: USD regained strength, with 1 AUD = $0.69 USD​

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