Celebrate Australian culture with these stunning new coins from the Mint!

Coins and banknotes are more than just a means to buy daily needs and indulgences.

Sometimes, they also hold a piece of Australia's history and identity.

This time, a coin recognising one of Australia's beloved writers is the centre of every coin enthusiast's attention.


The Royal Australian Mint just released a rare and beautiful set of gold 50-cent coins.

These coins were created as a tribute to the enduring legacy of poet Dorothea Mackellar.

The coins were officially launched at the Dorothea Mackellar Centre in her hometown of Gunnedah.


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Dorothea Mackellar OBE was a prolific poet and fictional writer. Image Credit: The Royal Australian Mint


For coin collectors, these coins could be a valuable addition to their collection as they celebrate Australian culture and heritage.

Dorothea Mackellar, best known for her poem My Country, has captured the hearts of Australians for generations with her evocative descriptions of the Australian landscape.

The Royal Australian Mint has now immortalised her work through three 50-cent coins.

These coins were inspired by three of Mackellar's best works—Dawn, My Country, and The Colours of Light.


The first coin, inspired by Dawn, featured a stunning depiction of the road to Mackellar's hometown.

It captured the serene beauty of sunrise as it spread its light across trees and mountains.

It also highlighted a glistening spider web—a symbol of new beginnings and the interconnectedness of life.

The second coin, which drew inspiration from My Country, showcased the rugged charm of the 'sunburnt country' along with the 'land of sweeping plains'.

The coin visualised the contrasts and vastness that define the Australian landscape.

The final coin, based on The Colours of Light, has an image of a peacock surrounded by radiant flora, symbolising Australia's vibrant and diverse beauty.


Doug McRostie of Coinxchange believed that these coins may not be in high demand from collectors.

These conditions should make them an excellent addition for those starting their coin collections.

'The Mint is allowing you to purchase ten at a time, with a mintage of 20,000 of each coin,' McRostie explained.

'They are also allowing purchases via the mint e-shop instead of doing a ballot, which also suggests that demand will be down.'

These coins are sold individually for $20 and should hold their value, according to McRostie.

For those who want the full set to celebrate Dorothea Mackellar's works, a boxed collection is also available for $50.


Jennifer Sullivan, the Mint's executive manager of sales, marketing, and innovation, shared that Mackellar's poetry continues to resonate with Australians across all generations.

'Her words evoke the essence of this land, its vastness, resilience, and natural beauty,' Sullivan said.

'Through this coin series, we hope to celebrate her enduring influence and provide collectors with a meaningful connection to her legacy.'

Over the years, the Mint has created unique commemorative coins.

In 2020, they released three gold 50-cent coins to celebrate Banjo Paterson's works, including Waltzing Matilda and The Man From Snowy River.

For those who want to introduce their grandkids to coin collecting, the Mint, in partnership with Australia Post, introduced Bluey-themed coins.

Collectors and enthusiasts could get these coins through the Mint Contact Centre, the Mint Shop in Canberra, the Mint's online shop, or through participating authorised distributors.
Key Takeaways

  • The Royal Australian Mint released three new 50-cent gold coins celebrating the life of Australian poet Dorothea Mackellar.
  • The coins depicted imagery inspired by Mackellar's poems Dawn, My Country, and The Colours of Light.
  • Coin expert Doug McRostie suggested that these coins may not see high demand from collectors, allowing for easier acquisition.
  • The coins are available for $20 each and can be bought through the Royal Australian Mint's physical shop, online store, or via authorised distributors.
Have you seen any of Dorothea Mackellar's coins, or are you planning to buy any of these coins? We would love to hear your thoughts on these commemorative pieces in the comments below!
 
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I, HATE that darn poem ever since it was rammed down my neck in school - it was a daily recital of it and the lord's prayer (which i HATE just as much - besides i am not religious so it is useless to me). So i guess there is one more coin up for grabs as i won't be after one.
 

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