Discover the limited-edition coin Aussies are queuing up for: ‘Celebration of our people and cultures’
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In the heart of Adelaide, a buzz of excitement filled the air as hundreds of South Australians lined up, some for hours, all with the same gleaming hope: to secure a piece of history that might just turn into a treasure trove.
The object of their desire? A limited-edition 50-cent coin released by the Royal Australian Mint (The Mint) commemorates the 50th anniversary of the National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC).
This special 50-cent coin, featuring a striking blue dot-painted ring and symbols of Indigenous culture, along with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, has sparked the imaginations of collectors and enthusiasts alike, who hope it may be as valuable as a pot of gold.
The coin's design, which has captured the essence of Indigenous heritage, is the work of Cortney Glass, an artist originally from Katherine in the Northern Territory.
Glass's talent shone through in a competition, earning her the honour of having her artwork minted for posterity.
'Being the artist behind a special collectible coin is beyond my wildest dreams,' Glass expressed, overwhelmed by the significance of her contribution.
'This experience is truly an honour, and I am profoundly thankful for it.'
The NAIDOC coin not only celebrates the artistic achievements of Indigenous Australians but also marks a significant milestone for the committee at the forefront of advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Dr Lynette Riley, Co-Chair of the National NAIDOC Committee, reflected on the coin's importance: 'In producing this coin, we wish to celebrate and pay homage to all our people who have worked tirelessly over the past 50 years to ensure NAIDOC is a celebration of our people and our cultures, locally, state-wide, and nationally.'
‘Our Elders, who first established NAIDOC, would be very proud of them all.’
The enthusiasm for the coin was palpable as about 300 collectors queued in Rundle Mall to secure their piece of history.
The Mint offered an uncirculated frosted-coloured version of the coin for $20, while a circulated version was available at $10 for 20 coins.
Katrina Miles from Adelaide Exchange Jewellers hinted at the coin's potential future value, noting, 'The high demand will make it a collectible piece.'
But the NAIDOC coin wasn't the only piece of numismatic history up for grabs.
The Mint has also begun releasing coins bearing the effigy of King Charles, marking the first time in nearly 60 years that a new monarch has graced the full suite of Australian coins.
A 2024 six-coin set featuring King Charles was also on sale for $150, offering collectors another opportunity to invest in a piece of the future.
Have you ever queued for a special release, or do you have a treasured coin that holds a special place in your heart? Let us know in the comments below!
The object of their desire? A limited-edition 50-cent coin released by the Royal Australian Mint (The Mint) commemorates the 50th anniversary of the National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC).
This special 50-cent coin, featuring a striking blue dot-painted ring and symbols of Indigenous culture, along with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, has sparked the imaginations of collectors and enthusiasts alike, who hope it may be as valuable as a pot of gold.
The coin's design, which has captured the essence of Indigenous heritage, is the work of Cortney Glass, an artist originally from Katherine in the Northern Territory.
The Royal Mint released a limited edition coin in celebration of NAIDOC’s 50th anniversary. Credit: NAIDOC
Glass's talent shone through in a competition, earning her the honour of having her artwork minted for posterity.
'Being the artist behind a special collectible coin is beyond my wildest dreams,' Glass expressed, overwhelmed by the significance of her contribution.
'This experience is truly an honour, and I am profoundly thankful for it.'
The NAIDOC coin not only celebrates the artistic achievements of Indigenous Australians but also marks a significant milestone for the committee at the forefront of advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Dr Lynette Riley, Co-Chair of the National NAIDOC Committee, reflected on the coin's importance: 'In producing this coin, we wish to celebrate and pay homage to all our people who have worked tirelessly over the past 50 years to ensure NAIDOC is a celebration of our people and our cultures, locally, state-wide, and nationally.'
‘Our Elders, who first established NAIDOC, would be very proud of them all.’
The enthusiasm for the coin was palpable as about 300 collectors queued in Rundle Mall to secure their piece of history.
The Mint offered an uncirculated frosted-coloured version of the coin for $20, while a circulated version was available at $10 for 20 coins.
Katrina Miles from Adelaide Exchange Jewellers hinted at the coin's potential future value, noting, 'The high demand will make it a collectible piece.'
But the NAIDOC coin wasn't the only piece of numismatic history up for grabs.
The Mint has also begun releasing coins bearing the effigy of King Charles, marking the first time in nearly 60 years that a new monarch has graced the full suite of Australian coins.
A 2024 six-coin set featuring King Charles was also on sale for $150, offering collectors another opportunity to invest in a piece of the future.
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