Kookaburra Penny, 1919, Type 5 • A unique reverse • $70,000

Four variations on the one kookaburra theme were produced in 1919 and they are designated the Type 3, Type 4, Type 5 and Type 6 Kookaburra Pennies. The Type 5 Kookaburra Penny has a unique kookaburra reverse design. It is acknowledged that the Type 4 and Type 6 share the same kookaburra reverse. But the Type 5 has subtle differences that have often been overlooked. The kookaburra presents a slightly slimmer version to the Type 4 (and Type 6) with a shorter beak, that extends only as far as the 'L' in 'AUSTRALIA'. The obverse is the same as the Type 3 and the Type 4 and was the last time the legend 'GEORGE V D. G. BRITT: OMN:REX' was used. The Type 6 introduced a new legend.   

We have sold only three examples of the Type 5 Kookaburra Penny. The first in 2000, this coin. The second in 2009 that was later re-sold in 2021. And the third example sold in 2011. 

Rarity - One of seven known. An example would be offered every four to five years. 

Composition - Nickel 75% Copper 25%

Reverse - Kookaburra perched on a section of a tree branch, the word 'AUSTRALIA' sharply curved in large lettering, the penny denomination over two lines. The kookaburra presents a slightly slimmer version to the type 4 (and type 6) with a shorter beak that extends only as far as the 'L' in 'AUSTRALIA'. The tail has four feathers, the eye incuse. It is a design that is unique to the type 5 Kookaburra.

Obverse - Uncrowned effigy of George V, portrait reduced from a metal die supplied by Australian manufacturer, Stokes & Son and shared with the Type 3 and Type 4 Kookaburra Penny. The circular legend reads, GEORGE V D. G. BRITT: OMN:REX, the date appearing below the portrait with ornamental stops separating it from the legend.