Quick Coinage Facts
Years Minted: 1910
Composition: 0.9250 silver, 0.075 copper
Diameter Type: 28.5 mm
Weight: 11.31 grams ( 0.3363 ounces of silver)
Total Series Mintage: 1,259,000
Obverse Design: Bust Design
Reverse Design: Coat of Arms
Unique Features: Reeded
Introduction
With the exception of a two year issued silver crown (1937-38), the silver florin was Australia's largest circulating silver coin. Minted with a 92.5% silver composition and a diameter of 28.5mm, the florin is one of the most collected series among coin collectors.
1910 was the first year of coinage for an independent Australia (a Commonwealth Nation). All coins were minted in London and shipped to Australia as Australian minters did not yet have the capability to meet coinage demands as the mint facilities would not come online until 1916.
Description
The obverse, designed by George W. DeSaulles, features the bust image of King Edward VII facing right. On the outer periphery are the words "EDWARDVS VII D.G. BRITT : OMN : REX F.D. IND : IMP" (latin for "Edward VII, by Grace of God, King of all the Britons, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India"). Below Edward's shoulder are the designer's initials.
The reverse, designed by W.H.J. Blakemore, features the Australian Coat of Arms (also referred to as the Commonwealth Coat of Arms) based on the design granted by King Edward VII on 7 May 1908. The coat of arms features an emu and kangaroo flanking a shield under a seven pointed star all over a banner with the legend “ADVANCE AUSTRALIA”. On the outer periphery is the denomination “ONE FLORIN – TWO SHILLINGS” and year of issue.
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General Market Notes
Most florins tended to wear quickly. Expect large price increases for anything above the condition of fine (f).