December 2010 Archives
A friend contacts me a few days ago to tell me how upset they are about the condition of some stored coins. These decimal coins were taken from mint rolls about 12 months ago and holdered into adhesive 2x2's and placed into pvc flips to be offered for sale. Looking again at these coins 12 months later their condition is somewhat displeasing. The pvc has leeched through the quite thin mylar in the cardboard 2x2 and the coins are covered in a greasy film. Now completely disheartened over their condition which was once pristine but now considered damaged they have called on me for a shoulder to cry on.
This got me thinking about our aspirations for the Purple Penny Project. You can read a detailed explanation about the project on The Purple Penny website but in a nutshell it's about removing pvc from in or near your collections because of the harmful affects it has on your coins. I saw a lovely complete set of 50c and $1 coins offered for sale on eBay a few days ago (and of course I can't find it again now). All coins were lovingly removed from their RAM packagings and capsules and broken out of pnc's etc, this method often destroying original packaging in the process. The coins were then placed directly into 30 pocket and 42 pocket pvc coin pages where the coins fit snugly and do look pretty. But, and the big but is you might fit a lot of coins cheaply into these sorts of pages but the pvc in direct contact with the coins will cause damage and a film to be left on the surface of the coin over time. You are destroying the coins putting them in these pages. We're also seeing damage to coins from the pvc not even being in direct contact with the coin surface (through the thin mylar of the 2x2).
Another collector friend of mine has a set of uncirculated decimal coins they had lovingly collected over time meticulously picking out the best examples. They housed them in adhesive 2x2's in pvc pages locked in their safe over a period of time and upon returning to them their beautiful uncirculated example of a key decimal variety (worth thousands of dollars) had been damaged forever (as well as all the rest).
I guess what I'm trying to say here is it's best to make the right decisions based on factual knowledge about what the products are made from that you choose to store your collections in. If the dealer doesn't know and can't tell you then go to someone who can. Ask specifically for non-pvc coin accessory products.
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Lawn Bowls 50c
Competing for 6 Gold Medals at the Melbourne Comonwealth games in 2006, the world's best indoor and outdoor bowlers in record numbers were fierce competition. Australia bowled up 3 gold medals in the events.
Seen above the Lawn Bowls commemorative 50c produced by the Royal Australian Mint was one of 16 coins released in a series depicting each core sport of the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne 2006. Each coin was released as non-circulating legal tender (NCLT) and were not issued for circulation but purely as collector coins. The informative card issued with the coin features a sticker of "Karak" the Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product of the 2006 Commonwealth Games. Release price was $4.95.
The reverse design is by Royal Australian Mint designer Wojciech Pietranik and depicts the leisurely sport of Lawn Bowls. It also features the Melbourne Commonwealth Games 2006 logo. The obverse is the standard Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II depicted on all Australian coins since 1999. It is the standard 12 sided 50c shape and weighs 15.55g. It is 31.51mm and made from Cupro Nickel (75% copper and 25% nickel).
As well as the 15 other sporting coins in this series, a commemorative 50c, $1, $5 and $10 coins were also issued. The 15 other sporting coins were released in groups throughout 2005 and early 2006 before the Games started. This Lawn Bowls coin was in the last release in early 2006.
15,500 of the complete collection of the sporting coins, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 were issued in a special folder. 22,602 of these Lawn Bowls coins were released which included those in the complete collection.
The recently released Ashes commemorative 20c coin designed to represent the "six-stitcher" cricket ball will be used in the official coin toss at the Prime Minister's XI charity cricket match played on January 10th 2011, a recent RAM media release says.
The coin was released by the Royal Australian Mint to celebrate the Vodafone Ashes series of 2010/11 with the deciding match to be played on Boxing Day 2010. It was designed by coin engraver and sculptor Wojciech Pietranik.
The Prime Minister's XI is an annual cricket match played in Canberra with the Australian team playing an overseas country, the Australian Team picked by the Prime Minister. This year the Australian team chosen by PM Julia Gillard will play England.
The charity match will be promoted by PM Gillard's partner Tim Mathieson, an Ambassador of Mens Health to promote awareness of Mens health issues. The coin used in the toss at the match will later be sold to raise money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
Decimal Currency Memorabilia featuring 'Dollar Bill' on a drinking glass
Decimal Changeover Day was a big day for all Australians on February 14th 1966. It was the job of the Decimal Currency Board to help ease the transition and assist everyone in coverting their pounds, shillings and pence to dollars and cents.
I've recently written an article about C-Day and how the dollars and cents were first accepted by the community.
Huge advertising campaigns and information for the public was brought in because after all, this change affected EVERYONE. It was a time for learning and making change to make life easier even if it seemed more difficult right at the start. Some of the advertising included pamphlets, books, conversion cards, charts and tables and a campaign over radio and television. One of the advertisements featuring the animated character, a so-called 'mascot' for the event, Dollar Bill can be seen on YouTube. Dollar Bill helped in a public education program through the phasing out of imperial currency over a 2 year period.
A lot of this memorabilia is quite collectable today and an interesting side collecting theme to collecting actual coins. Commemorating the occasion was also a number of medals issued including this decimal changeover medallion.
Australia 1999 International Year of Older Persons $1 PNC
1999 was declared International Year of Older Persons by the United Nations and for the occasion a special one dollar coin was minted by the Royal Australian Mint for circulation. The International Year of Older Persons one dollar entry details this one dollar release and the mintages for this coin and other $1 coins issued in 1999 can be found on the 1999 to 2000 Issues and Mintages table.
The IYOP dollar which can be found in your change was released in this PNC issued by Australia Post (jointly with the RAM). There is a mintage of 56,065 of these coin and stamp covers. Postmarked at Caloundra in Queensland on the first day of issue February 11th 1999 this PNC features the two 45c stamps released by Australia Post. This PNC was issued for $3.95.
Australia 1999 International Year of Older Persons $1 PNC
The George Kruger Gray depiction of Uardry 0.1 Grand Champion Merino Ram "The Shilling Ram"
Released on January 1st 2011 the Royal Australian Mint are issuing a third coin with the theme of celebrating Australian Wool. Following on from the recent release of the two coin sets containing the commemorative Wool $1 and Wool 20c coin, the mintmark dollar coin for 2011 will show the rams head as seen on Australian pre-decimal shillings from 1938-1963. This coin will be available in proof and uncirculated condition with varying mintmarks and privymarks that will be released throughout the year.
The Australian pre-decimal shilling depicted this rams head as designed by George Kruger Gray. It was used again on 1991 25 Years of Decimal Currency 50c which was released into circulation and designed by Horst Hahne. The same iconic image is also now being used in 2011 on these special commemorative issues celebrating the reliance of the Australian nation on wool.
The ram depicted on all of these issues is modelled from the grand champion merino at the 37th Annual Sydney Sheep Show held in 1932. 366 Merino sheep were exhibited at this show with the Grand Champion owned and bred by Charles Mills of the Uardry Merino Stud in Hay (the Riverina District in NSW). The prize ram was Uardry 0.1 and his characteristics and features were considered so correct that he immortalised on circulation currency. The Uardry Merino Stud still breeds champions today.
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Boxing 50c
Ranging from 48kg to 91kg+ athletes compete in 11 different weight categories to bout for 11 Commonwealth Games Gold medals. Played at every Commonwealth Games since 1930 Boxing is a mainstay sport at the Games. Jafet Uutoni won the first medal for the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 for his country of Namibia in the Light Flyweight 48kg bout at the final night of boxing at the Games.
Seen above the Boxing commemorative 50c produced by the Royal Australian Mint was one of 16 coins released in a series depicting each core sport of the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne 2006. Each coin was released as non-circulating legal tender (NCLT) and were not issued for circulation but purely as collector coins. The informative card issued with the coin features a sticker of "Karak" the Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product of the 2006 Commonwealth Games. Release price was $4.95.
The reverse design is by Royal Australian Mint designer Wojciech Pietranik and depicts Boxing being contested. It also features the Melbourne Commonwealth Games 2006 logo. The obverse is the standard Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II depicted on all Australian coins since 1999. It is the standard 12 sided 50c shape and weighs 15.55g. It is 31.51mm and made from Cupro Nickel (75% copper and 25% nickel).
As well as the 15 other sporting coins in this series, a commemorative 50c, $1, $5 and $10 coins were also issued. The 15 other sporting coins were released in groups throughout 2005 and early 2006 before the Games started. This Boxing coin was in the last release in early 2006.
15,500 of the complete collection of the sporting coins, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 were issued in a special folder. 22,602 of these Boxing coins were released which included those in the complete collection.
Decimal Changeover Medallion in Sterling Silver
Only at Angus and Coote Jewellers* could you buy this special commemorative medallion shown above in celebration of Australia's new decimal coins, legal tender from February 14th 1966. Released on C-day 14th February 1966 it depicts the animals used in the new currency with the obverse featuring a coin press to commemorate the opening of the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra by the Duke of Edinburgh on 22nd February 1965 in preparations for the change in currency. Available in cast bronze or sterling silver this medallion was available in a small square red leather-look/cloth/vinyl case with gilt trim (see below). The sterling silver medalllion was available at $10 and the bronze for $4.
It could also be purchased in a large square presentation case (not shown) for the cost of the medal plus $3.75 for the case. It could then be filled with the new decimal coins for face value of 88c. The long box seen below was available for $2.50 with no provision for the medal was merely a memento to house the new currrency at face value of 88c. A copy of the medal was depicted on a commemorative seal on the lid of the box.
A limited number of these 39mm medals were struck by Stokes Ltd. 6,000 bronze and 3,000 silver. The silver versions were numbered on the edge of the medal. It was also issued in 9 carat and 18 carat gold each with a mintage of 24.
Those with a Carlisle reference guide, this medal is 1966/16.
*edit: 14 February 2011 -It appears the single medal (silver and bronze) in case could also be ordered for purchase through Renniks & Co in Adelaide and Max Stern in Melbourne.
1966 Presentation Box and Medal Case with Bronze Medallion
It was excitement and deep interest as consumers deliberately spent money to obtain the new dollars and cents on C-day Monday February 14th 1966. Banks had been closed since the previous Wednesday to allow the transition to decimal accountancy and reopened for C-day to hustle and bustle.
Shops showed some confusion with shortages of dollar notes and silver coins but plenty of copper 1c and 2c, most giving change in a mixture of both pounds, shillings and pence along with dollars and cents. Under the new currency a box of matches cost 1 1/2 cents so as there was no half-cents shopkeepers wanted to sell 2 boxes for 3c. The old half-penny didn't fair in the conversion so these had been removed from shop pricing prior to the last Christmas.
Customers purchasing a middy of beer handed over 2 shillings to receive the thirst quencher and change of a sixpence and 1c. Some shopkeepers were just happy to continue trading with £.s.d and chalked the day up to "just another of Menzies' fads" referring to the Prime Minister of the time, but they would come round.
Sydney Harbour Bridge toll collectors continued to hand out shillings to disappointed drivers hoping for 10c pieces as change for their florins. The Decimal Currency Board chairman Sir Walter Scott travelled to work by train on this day watching clerks at the booking offices eyeing off the transition and it's affect on commuters "just going like clockwork this morning" he said.
The Sydney Stock Exchange transitioned easily with smooth, but slightly slower trading and investor confidence in the market appeared unaffected.
Interestingly, housewives of the time noted some price rises in household essentials in the leadup to changeover day. The conversions not always favourable so the prices just went up. An expert of the time, Professor N.R Wills (head of the School of Business Administration at the University of NSW) said the changeover would cost consumers no more than 5c (or 6d) a week extra.
"I think the advantage people will find in keeping a check on their money, and not be short-changed over the counter, will make up for this. Even morons can count up to 10".Experts said that the positives and negative pricing costs would even out and no one would be worse off for the event.
Shopkeepers who changed their pricing over on the weekend took advantage of the fractions that didn't convert well. 2 pennies converted to 2c, but so did a threepence! The drought had been blamed for fresh food increases over the past 9 months anyway increasing the cost of living by 1-2 pounds ($2-4) per week.
Back in 1966 common household items cost:
- postage stamp 4c
- newspaper 5c
- a pint of milk (600ml) 10c
- mens haircut 70c
Department stores such as David Jones and Mark Foy's (responsible for the issue of the Foy Bags contaning the 1934/5 Melbourne Centenary Florin collectors will have heard of) hired experts who were on hand to answer customer questions and staff had been training for the conversion for between 4 months to 2 years. Along with these expert staff, conversion tables and charts hung from the ceilings with charts at each register allowing customers to accurately assess their dollar and cents change. Mark Foys implemented the change with a "big dollar bargains day" with ladies swimsuits at $1.50 and cardigans for $2 to shift the idea that their prices would increase with the changeover.
Special service staff "Dollar Guides" on hand to help consumers at department store "Farmers" in Sydney
Decimal enthusiast Wayne Roberts has kindly supplied some of his research findings regarding the differences that can be found in the Ian Rank-Broadley obverse over the years. Catch up back at the main entry Australian Coin Obverses: Ian Rank-Broadley, then screw on your thinking cap, get in the zone, grab a coffee, put on your glasses and read on, you'll need all the concentration you can get!
There have been various modifications to this obverse since 1998/99 both of the portrait in size and of the text style or size of both the IRB and the legend around the portrait.
In 1999, one can find the RAM adjusting the size of the portrait. This is identified by the slight differences in the space between the legend and the rim. Two size varieties can be found for the 10 cents and $2 coins while there are three varieties for the $1 International Year of Older Persons coins. This also appears to have flowed on to the $1 Last ANZACS mintmark coins with the possibility of two portrait sizes at least on some mintmark issues.
In 2000, the text of the legend was changed and appears much finer than the 1999 style and possibly the size of the portrait was also changed. It is possible there were slight differences on issues throughout 2000 also and of course we have the 2000 Mob of Roos $1 mule with the 10 cents obverse die used. This was the year that the special Australian designed portrait of HM the Queen was used on the 50 cents Royal Visit coin only.
The text style and portrait size changed again for the 2001 issues and again during the year creating at least two varieties for the 2001 obverse. This encompassed the 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, $1 and $2 issues, while the 50 cents may have retained the one obverse throughout the year (more research is needed here). The 20 cents appears to have three varieties, at least in the proof coins.
These varieties are best identified by the difference in style of the IRB lettering. The three varieties are best described as:
- IRB spaced
- IR spaced and RB joined
- IRB joined
Further differences involve the size of the portrait and distance of the legend from the rim. These can also be known as the small and large head obverses. Each difference is linked to a different IRB style.
When looking for differences between obverses, the key points are:
- distance of legend text from the rim
- distance of high point on tiara from rim
- distance of right point of neck from rim
- style of IRB
- style, size, width of text - look at A, U, S, I, E and B especially
- style, size, width of date - look at 2 and 0 especially
From 2003 the obverse of the coins seem to have standardised with the IRB joined. However some strange things still continue with the styles of the legend text. In 2004 both the 20 cents and 50 cents came out in two varieties of legends, each associated with a large head portrait or small head portrait. The large head carried the familiar text with the "A"s all being pointed while the small head portrait had a different style text best described as flat-topped "A"s. In 2005 the legend and portrait size on the 20 cents and 50 cents returned to the pointed A style large head type but the size of the text was slightly larger and "00" in date more elliptical than on the other denominations. In 2006 it changed again for these two denominations where it became thicker, the 2 in date started blunt.
If that wasn't enough, in 2007 the 20 cents Platypus circulation issue came out with two varieties in the style of the 7 in the date. These are described as thin 7 and thick 7. The style of the date changed for the other denominations in 2008 with the start of the 2 being blunt rather than sharp/pointed and the "00"s in the date of these denominations became more elliptical. This continued in 2009 and the 20 cents in 2010. However the other 2010 issues appear to have another style date with a difference in the "0"s in the date appearing more egg shaped. A simple check is to compare the legend and date styles of the two coins in the 2010 Burke and Wills mint set and you will get an idea of these different styles.
The 2011 date style is different again with the 2 in date on all issues 5 cents to $2 having a curled like blob at the start of the 2.
It is hard to pick up many of these difference with the naked eye as the coins are so small but they can be seen with slight magnification.
Thanks to Wayne for his detailed information we've been able to publish here for the benefit of the serious variety collector.
Buying coins in room auctions is often the only way you can obtain certain items, such as key date coins and rare coin errors. However, buying coins at auction can often only be done in places where you don't happen to live, and getting to view the coins and attend the auction can be problematic at best. A recent experience of one of the authors with a well known auction house reinforces the idea that if you're going to buy at auction then you MUST view a lot yourself or have the lot viewed by someone you trust. The simple reason is that often problems with auction lots are either not described fully, or are not apparent in then (often) very poor images auction houses provide with their catalogues. The lot one of the authors purchased is a spectacular and rare error, not one we've ever seen before. Sadly the coin has also been cleaned and then polished. So an error that might be worth upwards of $1000 is now only worth $50 at best. So very sad. Here's five tips for viewing lots at coin auctions or buying if you can't attend the viewing:
- If you can attend an auction viewing then do so. View all lots you are interested in. Often it is worth viewing your lots twice, the second time round often reveals things that the first look did not.
- Take your loupe, make sure the light is good, make sure you eat and drink properly. You will likely be sitting still for a long time and need to maintain your concentration.
- If you can't attend the viewing then get someone you know and trust to view the lots you are interested in for you.
- If you can't attend the viewing and can't get someone to look at lots for you then make sure the auction house has a strong return policy. You will want to return a problem coin if you end up winning it.
- Try to stick to buying reputable third party graded and slabbed coins if you can't attend the auction viewing. Sure they may have problems too but at least you will have a definite idea of what the coin is likely to be like given the numeric grade.
Since the announcement of the engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton designers for the Mints' have been busy indeed designing and perfecting their designs for a coin to mark the occasion. One could speculate that these designs were already in the pipeline before any official announcement.
Whilst an issue for Australian coinage is imminent, a Royal Mint release for the occasion has been the first off the mark. Legal currency for Alderney (a British Crown Dependency of the Channel Islands), a £5 coin is being released commemorating the Wills and Kate engagement. Dated 2010 this is the first in a series of official designs which have received Royal approval from Prince William and Queen Elizabeth II.
The reverse by Royal Mint Chief Engraver Matt Bonaccorsi features the newly engaged couple with a legend of "Celebrating the Engagement of William and Catherine". The obverse is the standard Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II used on all Commonwealth currency with a "Alderney Five Pounds 2010 Elizabeth II" legend.
The coin is struck to brilliant uncirclalted quality which in Australia we would certainly call a specimen strike. Not a circulation strike but not as pristine as a proof strike. There will be no more than 50,000 pieces included in the special folder advertised but the fine print reads no more than 100,000 coins are to be struck so this coin will most certainly be included in another issue.
This release is cupro-nickel and 38.61mm in diameter. It weighs 28.28g. This issue has also been struck in silver, gold plated silver and fine gold. The Royal Mint's official issue price for the cupro nickel coin is £9.99.
For a different "spin" on things I think the Royal Mint website is pretty cool. Have a look at their listing for this coin and click on the 360 icon and drag your mouse across the coin and watch it spin!!
2011 Australian Wool 20c
Australian society "Riding on the Sheep's Back" is the theme for the 2011 2 coin sets released by the Royal Australian Mint. One of the most successful of Australia's primary industries is celebrated in this commemorative coin release which also includes a specially designed one dollar coin. Our primary wool industry has been supporting our economy since the first wool exports 100 years ago in 1911. China is now the largest processor of Australian Wool.
The 20c is designed by Vladimir Gottwald and captures the importance of wool in our economic and cultural development through the last century. It depicts a wagon wheel illustrated with images of hand shearing, sheep and bales on a wagon. The legend reads "Riding on the Sheep's Back Australian Wool 20". It also features a "G", the designers initials.
The obverse or heads side of the coin is the standard design of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley. The Australian 20c is 28.52mm, weighs 11.31grams and is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel (cupro-nickel).
This 20c was released in a 2 coin set with the Wool $1, these sets the only way to obtain these issues. Mintage is capped at 40,000 uncirculated sets (issue price $15) and 25,000 proof sets (issue price $45).
1982 $200 Gold Commonwealth Games Proof
Commemorating the Brisbane Commonwealth Games in 1982 a gold $200 coin was struck by the Royal Australian Mint. The XII Commonwealth Games logo can be seen on the commemorative 50c coin released into circulation. The $200 gold issue features this logo and an athlete on the reverse with "XII Commonwealth Games Brisbane 200 Dollars" in the legends. The obverse features the Arnold Machin portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
A series of gold $200 coins were released with the Koala reverse and yearly issues commemorating special occasions and events such as Charles and Diana's Wedding, the First Fleet and Australian native fauna.
This Commonwealth Games issue was struck in uncirculated and proof finish and is Australian legal tender for two hundred dollars. They are 24mm in diameter and have full edge reeding. Each weigh 10 grams of 91.67% gold and 8.33% copper which is 22 carat equating to 0.2948 ounces of gold. The value of this coin is reflected in the trade of gold bullion, so if you have one of these coins check out the Australian Gold Coin Calculator to find out what it is worth today.
There were 77,206 uncirculated coins released at $210 and 30,032 proof coins released at $350. These issues continue to trend with gold bullion pricing.
If you are looking to pick one of these up I'd recommend paying the premium for the proof coin. Apart from the obvious higher quality coin, the proofs were issued in a capsule in a box in an outer cardboard box with a certificate of authenticity. The uncirculated versions were simply slid into a soft pvc sleeve which could lead to pvc damage, fingerprints and environmental problems. The pvc tends not to damage the coin surface because of the gold composition but over time will leave an icky sticky residue on the coin.
A recent thread on an internet forum brought about some wise comments from one of our blog writers. He's been a bit quiet lately with blog input but his words are too good not to write up here for the benefit of others.
The thread poster, as a newbie to collecting, asked what the merits were for collecting decimal NCLT and whether it was a viable investment option for the future. Or does all the investing opportunities lie in pre-decimals? The answer posted up here sums up good collecting advice IMO.
I hate to say this, but collecting modern mint issue coins as an investment is likely to be a very poor investment indeed. Some issues do very well but the vast majority do not, witness that mint and proof sets are usually available the next year on ebay for under issue price. Picking which issues will appreciate in value is almost impossible, other than some yearly issues (like the Roo at Sunset $25 gold) which seem to do well each year.
I'd advise that you collect what you like, and if you decide this includes NCLT then all well and good. If you don't like the NCLT or perhaps your budget doesn't stretch that far then don't collect them. I don't collect current RAM issued stuff myself but I do have a number of the new Ashes 20c because I like the design very much.
Learn to grade, whether it be George V, George VI, or QE2, this the most valuable skill you can have. Once you can do that you'll get to know the striking characteristics of certain years, scarcity of high grade coins of year and type, and you'll have a much better chance of seeing some return on your investment. It doesn't have to be expensive either, you'll find that even in the QE2 series that true gems in some years are very hard to find. I've been trying to put together a gem QE2 florin and penny set for the last 4 years and still have a couple of coins from each series to find. And those are proving very difficult.
I should point out that I wouldn't even recommend trying to collect pre decimals for investment reasons until you have a LOT of experience. You will make mistakes and it's better to make cheap mistakes as you learn than to dive in head first straight away and make expensive mistakes that will likely drive you away from the hobby. Collect something you love, and you'll get to know what you love and the opportunity for financial gain will follow in time.
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Table Tennis 50c
Table Tennis was played at competitive levels at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 after being held for the very first time at the previous Games in Manchester England in 2002. It was played in mens and womens singles and doubles and team events. Singapore dominated the events with skill, speed and concentration taking home 4 gold, 4 silver and 3 bronze medals.
Seen above the Table Tennis commemorative 50c produced by the Royal Australian Mint was one of 16 coins released in a series depicting each core sport of the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne 2006. Each coin was released as non-circulating legal tender or NCLT as it is shortened to and were not issued for circulation but purely as collector coins. The informative card issued with the coin features a sticker of "Karak" the Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product of the 2006 Games. Release price was $4.95.
The reverse design is by Royal Australian Mint designer Wojciech Pietranik and depicts Table Tennis being played. It also features the Melbourne Commonwealth Games 2006 logo. The obverse is the standard Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II depicted on all Australian coins since 1999. It is the standard 12 sided 50c shape and weighs 15.55g. It is 31.51mm and made from Cupro Nickel (75% copper and 25% nickel).
As well as the 15 other sporting coins in this series, a commemorative 50c, $1, $5 and $10 coins were also issued. The 15 other sporting coins were released in groups throughout 2005 and early 2006 before the Games started. This Table Tennis coin was in the third release in November 2005.
15,500 of the complete collection of the sporting coins, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 were issued in a special folder. 22,502 of these Table Tennis coins were released which included those in the complete collection.
The Arnold Machin Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II
The original portrait of Queen Elizabeth II used on our first decimal currency released on the 14th February 1966 was by Arnold Machin O.B.E, R.A. He was commissioned to sculpt a new coin portrait of the Queen to appear on all new Commonwealth coinage. He was granted four sittings to prepare his designs which were officially approved by the Queen in 1964. He was awarded an Order of the British Empire (O.B.E.) for his work and his design was used on British coinage from 1968.
Arnold Machin (pronounced "Maitchin") was a British artist, sculptor and stamp designer born 30 September 1911 and passing away 9 March 1999. He created many sculptures and ceramics and is also well known for his sculpture that was turned into the silhouette design on UK stamps used from 1967 until the present.
His coin design which appears on the obverse (and is seen above) appeared on all Australian decimal legal tender currency from 1966 to 1984 when it was replaced by the Raphael Maklouf portrait.
The design, as per tradition depicts the Queen in profile facing to the right. It is known as the young portrait of Her Majesty. She is seen wearing the same Tiara portrayed in the Ian Rank-Broadley portrait depicted today on Australian decimal coins. This diamond Tiara was purchased from Garrand, the London jeweller and was a wedding gift for the future Queen Mary in 1893. Queen Mary (Queen Elizabeth II's grandmother) gifted the Tiara to QEII on her wedding day in 1947. The Tiara's name is the "Girls of Great Britain and Ireland" Tiara.
Australia 2007 50th Anniversary of the Australian Special Air Service $1 PNC
This SAS PNC was released in 2007 jointly between the Perth Mint and Australia Post. The coin is minted by the Perth Mint and the stamps produced by Australia Post together in this collectable coin and stamp cover. Military themes produced in coins always prove quite popular with collectors.
2007 commemorated 50 years of the Australian Special Air Services or SAS for short. It was established in Swanbourne Western Australia where this official PNC has been postmarked. The SAS regiment is a special force unit that can mount operations on air, land or sea, unlike our armed forces the Air Force, Army and Navy that specialise in each individual area.
The uncirculated one dollar coin features the SAS symbol on the reverse, the winged dagger with the motto "Who Dares Wins" 1957 2007. The legend reads "Australian Special Air Service 50th Anniversary". The obverse is the standard Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II with "Elizabeth II Australia 1 Dollar" in the legends. It is a non-standard non circulating legal tender coin at 30mm weighing 12.5grams. It is made from aluminium bronze and features continuous edge milling.
The coin is encased in a card inserted in the envelope specially designed by Australia Post, with a viewing hole for the coin. It features a 50c stamp with soldiers in the SAS unit. It is postmarked September 4th 2007. This PNC was issued for $14.95.
Australia 2007 50th Anniversary of the Australian Special Air Service $1 PNC
Australia 2007 Year of the Pig PNC 50c
2007 marked the Year of the Pig, the 12th sign in the Chinese zodiac. In celebrating this year the Perth Mint produced a legal tender Australian coin and Australia Post released commemorative stamps which were issued together in a bright design of a PNC or coin and stamp cover.
The uncirculated coin, produced by the Perth Mint is legal tender for 50c. It will never be found in your change though, it is strictly a non-circulating design. It is round with a completely milled edge. It's composed of aluminium bronze, is 30mm in diameter and weighs 13.8grams. It is housed in a card insert inside a first day cover. The coin design is simply a pig on a chinese setting background with the symbol of 2007 in Chinese characters. The obverse depicts the standard portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley.
The envelope was designed by Australia Post and features a viewing hole for the coin inside the card. It houses a 50c and $1.45c stamps cancelled at Christmas Island Western Australia on January 9th 2007, the first day of issue. This PNC was issued for $11.95.
A legal tender one dollar was produced in 2007 also depicting the Year of the Pig but minted by Australia's circulating coin producers, the Royal Australian Mint.
Australia 2007 Year of the Pig PNC 50c
Australia 2006 Year of the Dog PNC 50c
According to the Chinese Lunar Calendar, 2006 celebrated the eleventh zodiac sign, the Dog. This symbol reflects loyalty and protection, confidence, and a stubborn streak, characteristics of those born into the Year of the Dog. People born into the Year of the Dog include Madonna, Bill Clinton, Winston Churchill and Elvis Presley.
Celebrating the Chinese New Year, Australia Post in collaboration with the Perth Mint released a PNC, or coin and stamp cover as a special collectable for this occasion. The NCLT, or non-circulating legal tender coin has a value of 50c. It could almost be mistaken for one dollar being of aluminium bronze but slightly larger at 30mm and 13.8g. It has continuous edge milling.
The reverse design is a representation of a German Shepherd dog sitting in front of mountainous terrain. Above is the chinese symbol for dog. The date, 2006, appears on the reverse. The obverse or "heads" side features the standard portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley with "Elizabeth II Australia 50 cents" in the legends.
The uncirculated coin is housed in a card insert produced by The Perth Mint. The envelope by Australia Post features a window revealing the coin inside and a 50c and $1.45c stamp of Christmas Island, Australia. It is postmarked 5th January 2006 at Christmas Island, WA. This PNC was released at $11.95.
Australia 2006 Year of the Dog PNC 50c
Australia 2006 The Queen's Birthday PNC 50c
Released by The Perth Mint this PNC features an unusual coin never to be found in your change. It is legal tender for 50c but has been produced as NCLT, non-circulating legal tender. It is not too dissimilar to our one dollar coin being of aluminium bronze, a little larger at 30mm diameter and 13.8g.
The reverse uses pad-printing technology and the coloured design is of the Queen wearing the Order of the Garter as she is depicted in the famous portrait taken in 1953 by British photographer Cecil Beaton. The legend reads "Queen Elizabeth II 80th Birthday 21-4-2006. The obverse features the standard Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II with "Australia Elizabeth II 50 cents" in the legends.
The PNC features a card insert housing the uncirculated coin, depicted on this card is a photo taken at the Royal Christening of Princess Elizabeth being held by her proud parents. This insert produced by The Perth Mint.
The envelope features a 50c and $2.45c stamp and is postmarked 19th April 2006 at Elizabeth in South Australia. The 50c stamp features the "Annigoni portrait" of which 2006 marks 50 years since the artist painted Her Majesty onto canvas. The $2.45 stamp features the photograph as on the coin design.
This PNC was released jointly by Australia Post and The Perth Mint for $14.95.
A different 50c celebrating the Queen's 80th Birthday produced by the Royal Australian Mint, also as NCLT but the standard dodecagonal shape was also issued in 2006.
Australia 2006 The Queen's Birthday PNC 50c
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Triathlon 50c
The Triathlon was one of 16 core sporting categories held at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006. The event included a 1,500m swim, 40km ride and 10km race each for the men and women which was held on one day during the Games. Once again Australia took the glory winning both Gold medals on offer.
This commemorative 50c produced by the Royal Australian Mint was one of 16 coins released in a series depicting each core sport of the Games. Released as NCLT or non-circulating legal tender they were not issued for circulation but merely as collector coins. Each were housed in an informative card and issued for $4.95. The card features a sticker of "Karak" the Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product of the 2006 Games.
The reverse design is by Wojciech Pietranik and depicts a runner, a bicycle and waves indicating the Triathlon events. It also features the Melbourne Commonwealth Games logo. The obverse is the standard Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II depicted on all legal tender coinage since 1999. It is dodecagonal in shape and weighs 15.55g. It is 31.51mm and made from Cupro Nickel (75% copper and 25% nickel).
As well as the 15 other sporting coins in this series, a commemorative 50c, $1, $5 and $10 coins were also issued. The 15 other sporting coins were released in groups throughout 2005 and early 2006 before the Games started. This Triathlon coin was in the third release in November 2005.
15,500 of the complete collection of the sporting coins, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 were issued in a special folder. 22,302 of these Triathlon coins were released which included those in the complete collection.
Australian 1953A (left) and 1959M Halfpennies
Whilst researching coin designer and sculptor Mary Gillick for the previous article Australian Coin Obverses: Mrs Mary Gillick I have come across some potential die differences that haven't previously been reported on with regard to Australian coinage.
In Canadian coinage after the first strikings of the Mary Gillick portrait in 1953 it was noted that the design was too high on the shoulder and there was no definition struck in the fold of Her Majesties gown. Queen Elizabeth II's shoulder looked bare which was considered inapropriate so a correction was made to the dies. Later in 1953, Thomas Shingles, the Royal Canadian Mint's Chief Engraver corrected the defect by lowering the relief and strengthening the shoulder and hair details. In doing this he created 2 varieties of the 1953 portrait, the "no shoulder fold" -sometimes also called "strapless" and "shoulder fold". The no fold variety can be seen in some 1954 and 55 Canadian cents which is very sought after.
These varieties have also been noted on New Zealand coinage particularly the 1956 threepence saw strikings with the two differing obverses. An example of a "Strapless" 1956 New Zealand penny in red Uncirculated condition sold at the recent October 2010 Downie's auction 306 for $2,300 + commission.
Other information states that the remastering of the dies was performed by Cecil Thomas, who was the runner up designer for the first effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. It can be assumed from this that possibly he remastered those dies for British coinage.
So the big question is was this done for Australian coins? If so, why hasn't there been a study done by one of the die hard varieties enthusiasts?
The images shown above show 1953A (Perth) and 1959M (Melbourne) halfpennies. The coin on the left is the no fold early variety and the 1959M halfpenny clearly shows shoulder straps. The portraits do look slightly different because of the spacing of the legends adding "FD" to the later issue. The shoulder is the highest point of the design and is thus the first place where we see strike weakness but this is not the case on the 1953A halfpenny here. Does anyone else concur with my theory?
No Fold (left) and Fold (right)
Mary Gillick Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II
The obverse of a coin is the "heads" side and traditionally features a portrait of the reigning monarch. Princess Elizabeth ascended to the throne on 6th February 1952 after the passing of her father King George VI. The new Queen Elizabeth II was depicted on Australian pre-decimal coinage from the following year, 1953 and continued until the last pre-decimal coins were minted in 1964. A new obverse featured at decimal changeover in 1966.
In 1952 seventeen artists submitted entries in plaster in a competition to design the portrait of the new Queen. Two entries were short-listed and both Cecil Thomas and Mary Gillick were chosen to have a sitting with the Queen. On the recommendation from the advisory committee the chosen winner was Mrs Mary Gillick. The uncrowned young Queen Elizabeth II design depicts her facing to the right as does each portrait used since this time. It is traditional that she faces the opposite way to her predecessor father King George VI whom always faced left.
The design features Mrs Gillick's initials MG at the very base of the portrait. The portrait is completely surrounded by an unbroken legend. "ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA", this means "Thanks be to God Queen Elizabeth II". George VI coins showed the letters "FD" in this legend meaning "defender of the faith" which was removed for the first issues of QEII then reinstated from 1955 onwards.
Visitors to the Royal Australian Mint Coin Shop, Denison Street, Deakin, ACT between now and the 20th December 2010 who purchase any of the specified 2011 Mint products will receive a ticket (one per item) to go into a draw. Multiple ticket entry is allowed. The prize will be on display at the RAM shop for the duration of the promotion. In a press release dated November 29th the promotion is being advertised to encourage visitors to make purchases at the Mint shop. What a great offer from the RAM but there's one big question...
What's the prize?
Eligible products:
2011 Two Coin Proof Year Set - Australian Wool.
2011 Two Coin Uncirculated Year Set - Australian Wool.
2011 Six Coin Proof Year Set.
2011 Six Coin Uncirculated Year Set.
2011 Proof Australian Baby Coin Set.
2011 Uncirculated Australian Baby Coin Set.
2011 Australian Wedding Coin Collection.
For full terms and conditions see the RAM media release
Ian Rank-Broadley Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II
A coin has 2 sides, a reverse and obverse. The reverse is often called the "tails" side. Turn it over and all legal tender Australian coins must depict the reigning monarch on the "heads" side of the coin. There have been few obverse designs feature on Australian coinage, while on the flipside there have been many many many reverse designs. Since Elizabeth became Queen in 1952 there have been 4 standard portraits of HM featured and one special one-off portrait.
HM's portrait has been updated as the Queen has aged over the years. The current design is the mature portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by designer Ian Rank-Broadley. This portrait was first used on Australian commemorative coins struck in the later half of 1998 and on circulation coinage from 1999. In 1997 a competition was held to design a new effigy for use on British and Commonwealth coinage and Ian Rank-Broadley was the winner.
In keeping with tradition the Queen faces to the right (she faces the opposite direction of her predecessor King George VI) and she is wearing the "Girls of Great Britain and Ireland" diamond tiara which she was given as a wedding present by her grandmother Queen Mary. Below the portrait are Ian Rank-Broadley's initials IRB, this obverse description often being shortened to the "Queen IRB" obverse.
There are some slight variations to the portrait and the legends in sizing and font styles over the years with more details in Australian Coin Obverses: Ian Rank-Broadley Part 2 Eyeing the Details.
2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Queen's Baton Relay $5The lead up to the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne 2006 was a big deal in the numismatic market. A plethora of coin releases included 50c designs, one dollar, $5 and $10 issues, all from the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra.
This issue seen above features the Queen's Baton Relay. This relay saw an 180,000 kilometre journey around the Commonwealth nations from Buckingham Palace and ending at the opening ceremony of the Games. The journey to Melbourne was the world's longest, travelling through the 71 countries for 366 days. The baton's journey symbolises the unity and shared ideals of the Commonwealth of Nations.
The baton itself featured satellite tracking and a camera enabling everyone to follow the relay. It also housed 71 lights which lit up progressively as the baton moved through the 71 nations. The elegant, curved form of the baton took its inspiration from the physical form of athletes arching forward as they strive for success.
This five dollar coin was presented in uncirculated and proof finish and was included in a PNC and in the Complete Uncirculated Coin Collection folder including the 16 sports coins and the student design 50c. The reverse was designed by Peter Soobik and features a fan of batons, the Melbourne 2006 logo, St Edward's Crown and a depiction of the path of the baton relay runners.
The coin itself is 38.74mm and weighs 20g. It is made of aluminium zinc and bronze. The obverse features the standard Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. This example has the joined IRB variety of this effigy.
23,375 uncirculated coins were released (for $12.95) inclusive of the 15,500 in the Complete Collection folder.
22,002 uncirculated coins were issued in a PNC for $14.95.
9,100 silver proof coins were issued (weighing 36.31g) at $68.50.
2010 Centenary of Girl Guiding in Australia PNC
Celebrating the centenary of Girl Guides from 1910 to 2010 over 1 million women have been or are still active within the Guides. Their motto for this celebration is "100 years of changing lives". 100 years of challenging it's members and developing skills in leadership and teamwork enabling girls and young women to grow and positively contribute in society.
Released into circulation in 2010 was this Centenary of Girl Guiding one dollar. It was also issued by Australia Post as a PNC -philatelic numismatic cover or stamp and coin cover.
Shown above, the PNC features some of the Girl Guide members. Australia Post issued a stamp series of which the 60c design is on the envelope cover. It is postmarked 31 August 2010 at Melbourne Victoria 3000.
The PNC contains an insert with the coin capsuled inside. This insert provided by the Royal Australian Mint. For more information on the coin design see the Australian Dollar Coins 2010 Centenary of Girl Guiding Dollar entry.
The envelope reverse (shown below) depicts the 100 years girl guides logo and information about the Guides and their history. The cover shows an authentic merchandise sticker from Australia Post and was released for $14.95. Check the mintage in the 2010 Mintage Table.
2010 Centenary of Girl Guiding in Australia PNC
2003 Australia's Volunteers 20c
Honouring those individuals in the community that are quietly "making a difference", this 20c coin gives a face and recognition to their hard work. The coin above is a proof strike but you will find the circulation coins in your change of which 7,574,000 were released into circulation. Issued in 2003 this theme was followed across the Royal Australian Mint proof and mint sets as they released a commemorative one dollar and commemorative 50c in these sets and into circulation.
4 million dedicated Australian's volunteer each year and these coins pay tribute and are a credit to their tireless hard work. They are the unsung volunteers who together form the backbone of Australian society. The reverse design depicts a group of volunteers displaying their diversity. A kaleidoscope of volunteers giving freely of their time to help others and benefit their communities. A fitting image on a twenty cent piece designed by Vladimir Gottwald. The opposing side of the coin, the obverse, features the effigy used on all current legal tender. The Royal endorsed portrait of Queen Elizabeth II designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. IRB initials can be seen at the base of the portrait.
The twenty cent is a 28.52mm round coin with continuous edge milling or reeding. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel known as cupro-nickel and weighs 11.31g.
A fitting tribute the 2003 Year Set of both uncirculated and proof coins is a stirring salute to the legion containing this 20c and the commemorative 50c and one dollar.
2003 unc set mintage 80,512
2003 proof set mintage 39,090
Special inclusions of this coin are the:
2003 Wedding Set in gem uncirulated finish mintage 3,249 and
2003 Fine Silver Year Set in pure silver proof finish mintage 6,500
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Netball 50c
Netball held at the Commonwealth Games is a women only competition and surprisingly very popular with viewers and spectators. 12 nations competed at the Melbourne 2006 Games with New Zealand taking the gold beating the reigning Commonwealth champions, Australia who took the silver.
To celebrate the sporting events held during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games a series of 16 50c coins were released by the Royal Australian Mint as well as a student designed 50c, a one dollar, $5 and $10 coins. The Mint was one of the sponsors of the Games and also designed and produced the winning gold, silver and bronze medals.
The first release in this 50 cent coin series included Basketball, Hockey, Shooting and Weightlifting coins. The second release included Cycling, Badminton, Rugby 7's and Gymnastics. This Netball coin was included in the third release with Athletics, Triathlon and Table Tennis. It was minted as a collector coin and not released into circulation. It was issued in a capsule in an informative card by itself and for inclusion in the Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection series. The individual 50c coins in the series were sold for issue price of $4.95.
The coin design is by RAM designer Wojciech Pietranik and depicts netball in action and the Melbourne 2006 logo. The obverse is the standard effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, who officially opened the Games, by Ian Rank-Broadley. It is the standard dodecagonal shape 31.51mm in size and weighs 15.55g. It is made from cupro nickel which is 75% copper and 25% nickel. The card also features a sticker of 'Karak', a red-tailed black cockatoo and Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product.
22,432 of these uncirculated coins were issued to collectors which includes 15,500 issued for inclusion in the complete collection folder.
The complete collection folder included the 16 sporting 50c, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 coin. Initially these folders were sold (May 2005) as a starter pack which included the first 4 sporting 50c coins and the rest of the sporting 50c were sent out to collectors as they were released later in the year. The second release was sent out in July 2005 and this, the Netball coin included in the third release in November 2005.
Australia 1966 Decimal Heritage Set Proof Coins -image courtesy RAM
With the recent release of the 1966 Decimal Currency Heritage Set it's worth a discussion about the limited issue of the coins contained in this framed set. The Royal Australian Mint produced a mintage of just 400 of these framed sets which contain 2010 dated proof 1c, 2c and round 50c coins.
The 1 and 2c bronze coins were removed from circulation in 1991. Since then, only in the 40th anniversary of decimal currency sets in 2006 have we seen strikes of the Feather-Tailed Glider and Frilled Neck Dragon Lizard. Both the 2006 Mint and Proof sets featured these coins with the current Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II.
2006 Mint set uncirculated (incl. ANDA and Berlin Fair overprints) mintage 87,407
2006 Proof Set mintage 45,373
2006 Pure Gold Set mintage 300
The 2006 Fine Silver year Set mintage was 5,829 with the original Arnold Machin obverse of QEII.
The round 80% silver version of our Coat of Arms 50c piece was issued only in 1966 with the Arnold Machin effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. From 1969 it was issued as a cupro-nickel dodecagonal coin.
It has a mintage of 36,252,000 coins which mostly are traded as silver bullion today and a proof mintage of just 18,066 coins in 1966 sets. These sets were issued in blue cases and a lot haven't faired well over time.
The 80% silver round 50c was restruck for the 2006 proof sets only with the Ian Rank-Broadley "older" obverse of Queen Elizabeth II.
2006 Proof set mintage is 45,373
2006 Pure Gold Set mintage 300
2006 Fine Silver Year Set mintage 5,829 with the original Arnold Machin obverse.
So to recap the above mintages, the 2010 1c, 2c and round 50c proofs with a 400 mintage are the lowest mintage issues of these coins in their original composition.
Lets just take a moment now. It's likely the RAM reused the reverse dies they previously used to strike the 2006 issues. They would have however needed to make new dies of the correct sizes for the 1c, 2c and round 50c with the Ian Rank-Broadley obverse to strike these 2010 coins. Did they go to all that trouble to strike just 400 of each coin? Will we see another issue with these coins included. It's a bit late in the year for this thought to come to fruition, but, still possible.
These 400 framed sets are likely to see a firm rise in value due to their tiny mintage. Congratulations to those who managed to secure a set.
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Athletics 50c
Athletics events for the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 were held at the MCG. An international-standard eight-lane synthetic track was laid in October 2005 but was overlaid with turf for the Boxing Day Cricket Match in December that year and the turf was then removed. The Athletics program consisted of track and field events, walks and marathon. Australia took home 16 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze medals dominating the Athletics events on home turf.
To celebrate the sporting events held during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games a series of 16 50c coins were released by the Royal Australian Mint as well as a student designed 50c, a one dollar, $5 and $10 coins. The Mint was one of the sponsors of the Games and also designed and produced the winning gold, silver and bronze medals.
The first release in this 50 cent coin series included Basketball, Hockey, Shooting and Weightlifting coins. The second release included Cycling, Badminton, Rugby 7's and Gymnastics. This Athletics coin was included in the third release. It was minted as a collector coin and not released into circulation. It was issued in a capsule in an informative card by itself and for inclusion in the Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection series. The individual 50c coins in the series were sold for issue price of $4.95.
The coin design is by RAM designer Wojciech Pietranik and depicts Athletics in action and the Melbourne 2006 logo. The obverse is the standard effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, who officially opened the Games, by Ian Rank-Broadley. It is the standard dodecagonal shape 31.51mm in size and weighs 15.55g. It is made from cupro nickel which is 75% copper and 25% nickel. The card also features a sticker of 'Karak', a red-tailed black cockatoo and Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product.
22,475 of these uncirculated coins were issued to collectors which includes 15,500 issued for inclusion in the complete collection folder.
The complete collection folder included the 16 sporting 50c, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 coin. Initially these folders were sold (May 2005) as a starter pack which included the first 4 sporting 50c coins and the rest of the sporting 50c were sent out to collectors as they were released later in the year. The second release was sent out in July 2005 and this, the Athletics coin included in the third release in November 2005.
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Gymnastics 50c
Gymnastics at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 consisted of 2 disciplines, artistic and rhythmic gymnastics. Competitors need skill, balance, flexibility and concentration being judged in individual and team competitions. Canada dominated the events taking home 12 gold medals. Australia took home 6 of each gold silver and bronze medals.
To celebrate the sporting events held during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games a series of 16 50c coins were released by the Royal Australian Mint as well as a student designed 50c, a one dollar, $5 and $10 coins. The Mint was one of the sponsors of the Games and also designed and produced the winning gold, silver and bronze medals.
The first release in this 50 cent coin series included Basketball, Hockey, Shooting and Weightlifting coins. The second release included Cycling, Badminton, Rugby 7's and this release, the Gymnastics coin. It was minted as a collector coin and not released into circulation. It was issued in a capsule in an informative card by itself and for inclusion in the Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection series. The individual 50c coins in the series were sold for issue price of $4.95.
The coin design is by RAM designer Wojciech Pietranik and depicts Gymnastics in action and the Melbourne 2006 logo. The obverse is the standard effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, who officially opened the Games, by Ian Rank-Broadley. It is the standard dodecagonal shape 31.51mm in size and weighs 15.55g. It is made from cupro nickel which is 75% copper and 25% nickel. The card also features a sticker of 'Karak', a red-tailed black cockatoo and Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product.
25,574 of these uncirculated coins were issued to collectors which includes 15,500 issued for inclusion in the complete collection folder. This is the second highest mintage of the 16 sporting coins indicating the popularity of the sport.
The complete collection folder included the 16 sporting 50c, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 coin. Initially these folders were sold (May 2005) as a starter pack which included the first 4 sporting 50c coins and the rest of the sporting 50c were sent out to collectors as they were released later in the year. This Gymnastics coin was in the second release in July 2005.
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Rugby 7's 50c
Rugby 7's is considered a core Commonwealth Games sport but has only been played at the Games since 1988. It is one of only two male-only sports held at the Games. New Zealand dominated the event winning the one gold medal on offer at the Melbourne 2006 Games and every gold in the previous 3 Commonwealth Games since the inclusion of it in 1988.
To celebrate the sporting events held during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games a series of 16 50c coins were released by the Royal Australian Mint as well as a student designed 50c, a one dollar, $5 and $10 coins. The Mint was one of the sponsors of the Games and also designed and produced the winning gold, silver and bronze medals.
The first release in this 50 cent coin series included Basketball, Hockey, Shooting and Weightlifting coins. The second release included Cycling, Badminton and this release, the Rugby 7's coin. It was minted as a collector coin and not released into circulation. It was issued in a capsule in an informative card by itself and for inclusion in the Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection series. The individual 50c coins in the series were sold for issue price of $4.95.
The coin design is by RAM designer Wojciech Pietranik and depicts the Rugby 7's in action and the Melbourne 2006 logo. The obverse is the standard effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, who officially opened the Games, by Ian Rank-Broadley. It is the standard dodecagonal shape 31.51mm in size and weighs 15.55g. It is made from cupro nickel which is 75% copper and 25% nickel. The card also features a sticker of 'Karak', a red-tailed black cockatoo and Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product.
24,427 of these uncirculated coins were issued to collectors which includes 15,500 issued for inclusion in the complete collection folder.
The complete collection folder included the 16 sporting 50c, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 coin. Initially these folders were sold (May 2005) as a starter pack which included the first 4 sporting 50c coins and the rest of the sporting 50c were sent out to collectors as they were released later in the year. This Rugby 7's coin was in the second release in July 2005.
Australia 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection Series -Badminton 50c
Badminton has been played at every Commonwealth Games since 1966 and was the first racquet sport to be included in the Games. The events at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 were one of the biggest on the world Badminton calendar. The Badminton results were dominated by Malaysia and England taking home the majority of the medals, sadly no medals for Australia. Of the 59 gold medals competed for in Commonwealth Games history Australia has won just two.
To celebrate the sporting events held during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games a series of 16 50c coins were released by the Royal Australian Mint as well as a student designed 50c, a one dollar, $5 and $10 coins. The Mint was one of the sponsors of the Games and also designed and produced the winning gold, silver and bronze medals.
The first release in this 50 cent coin series included Basketball, Hockey, Shooting and Weightlifting coins. The second release included the Cycling coin and this release, the Badminton coin. It was minted as a collector coin and not released into circulation. It was issued in a capsule in an informative card by itself and for inclusion in the Melbourne Commonwealth Games Sports Collection series. The individual 50c coins in the series were sold for issue price of $4.95.
The coin design is by RAM designer Wojciech Pietranik and depicts Badminton in action and the Melbourne 2006 logo. The obverse is the standard portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, who officially opened the Games, by Ian Rank-Broadley. It is the standard dodecagonal shape 31.51mm in size and weighs 15.55g. It is made from cupro nickel which is 75% copper and 25% nickel. The card also features a sticker of 'Karak', a red-tailed black cockatoo and Games mascot indicating it is an official licensed product.
22,270 of these uncirculated coins were issued to collectors which includes 15,500 issued for inclusion in the complete collection folder.
The complete collection folder included the 16 sporting 50c, the student design 50c and the Queen's Baton Relay $5 coin. Initially these folders were sold (May 2005) as a starter pack which included the first 4 sporting 50c coins and the rest of the sporting 50c were sent out to collectors as they were released later in the year. This Badminton coin was in the second release in July 2005.
