Australia Florin: 1951 50th Year Jubilee

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Quick Coinage Facts

Years Minted: 1951
Composition: 0.50 silver
Diameter Type: 28.5  mm
Weight: 11.31 grams (0.1818 ounces of silver) 
Total Series Mintage: 2,000,000
Obverse Design: Bust Design
Reverse Design: Sceptor & Sword
Unique Features: Reeded

Introduction

To mark the fiftieth anniversary of Australian Federation, 1901 – 1951, a special florin commemorative was issued for circulation. Coins were minted in Melbourne for one year only (1951) and was issued with a composition of 50% silver and is officially known as the 50th Year Jubilee of Federation .

Description

The obverse, designed by T.H. Paget, features the bust of George the VI facing left.  At the bottom of  George's neck are the designer’s initials “HP”. On the outer periphery are the words "GEORGIVS VI D.G. BR : OMN : REX FIDEI DEF." (latin for "George VI, by Grace of God, King of all the Britons, Defender of the Faith"). 

The reverse, designed by Leslie Bowles, features a scepter (or mace) and sword crossing below a crown. The stars throughout the design are from the Southern Cross constellation that is also represented on the Australian flag. Flanking both sides of the design is the dual date 1901 – 1951 while on the outer periphery is the country name “AUSTRALIA” and denomination “FLORIN”.  

Obverse Reverse
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General Market Notes

Coins were saved in considerable numbers and remain affordable.

It is important to note that before dies were provided to the Melbourne Mint, a limited number of pattern proof copper nickel versions were made by the London Mint in the U.K. and are extremely rare.

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