1995 20c United Nations
In 1995 the very first Australian commemorative 20c coin was released into circulation. It marked the 50th Anniversary of the United Nations, an international organisation helping to unite the world in peace, human rights, economic development, social progress and law. Each year the organisation focuses on important international affairs to raise awareness of these issues. A few important commemorative Australian coin issues have been to commemorate the work and focus of the United Nations.
For example,
2001 International Year of Volunteers One Dollar
2008 International Year of Planet Earth One Dollar
2009 International Year of Astronomy One Dollar
This 20c features the symbol of the United Nations sculpted by Royal Australian Mint designer Horst Hahne. Hahne is probably more well know as the designer of the Aboriginal on the Australian $2 coin. The reverse design features a circular map of the earth flanked by olive branches, a symbol of peace. The obverse is the Raphael Maklouf portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. 4,835,000 of these cupro nickel 20c were released into circulation so it's likely you've come across one in your change -the only way these were issued. Each weighs 11.31g, is 28.52mm in diameter, have continuous edge milling and are composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
For more on the entire circulation and commemorative 20c issues see our entry The Complete Guide to the Australian 20c.
Posted by harrisk at May 14, 2011 12:29 PM
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