Queen Elizabeth The Second 1960 One Dollar Coin
Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning monarch in British history, and her face has been featured on countless coins and banknotes throughout her reign. One of the most popular coins featuring her likeness is the 1960 One Dollar Coin, which was minted in Australia.
Design and Features
The obverse of the coin features a young Queen Elizabeth II facing to the right, with the inscription "ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 1960" around the edge. This design is known as the "Young Head" portrait, and was used on many coins minted during the early years of her reign.
The reverse of the coin features an image of a kangaroo and an emu, the two animals that appear on the Australian coat of arms. Above them is the inscription "ONE DOLLAR", and below is the word "AUSTRALIA".
The coin is made of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, and has a diameter of 33.2mm. It weighs 23.62 grams, and has a reeded edge.
Value and Rarity
The value of the 1960 One Dollar Coin varies depending on its condition and rarity. A circulated coin in average condition might be worth around $15 to $20, while a coin in uncirculated condition could be worth upwards of $50.
However, there are some rare variations of the coin that can be worth much more. For example, there is a "mule" variety of the coin that features the obverse of a 1959 Halfpenny instead of the standard Young Head portrait. This error was caused by a mix-up at the mint, and only a few hundred of these coins were ever produced. A well-preserved example of this coin could be worth thousands of dollars.
History and Significance
The 1960 One Dollar Coin was minted to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Australia in 1954, which was the first time a reigning monarch had visited the country. The tour was a huge success, and helped to strengthen the ties between Australia and the United Kingdom.
Since then, the coin has become a popular collector's item, both in Australia and around the world. Its beautiful design and historical significance make it a must-have for anyone interested in coins or British royal history.
Conclusion
The Queen Elizabeth II 1960 One Dollar Coin is a beautiful and significant piece of British and Australian history. Its unique design and rarity make it a valuable collector's item, while its historical significance makes it an important artifact of the Queen's reign. Whether you're a coin collector or a royal enthusiast, this coin is sure to be a prized possession.