Kookaburra Penny, 1919, Type 6 • a unique obverse • $70,000

What is quite remarkable about the kookaburra coins is that they are patterns, or test pieces, handed to politicians and dignitaries for opinion. Yet the surfaces of some coins are proof-like, showing meticulous care and attention in their manufacture. Characteristically, the Type 6 Kookaburra Penny is a coin to behold, brilliant mirror surfaces and a deeply etched design. And this coin is no exception. 

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 kookaburra presents a fuller version to the Type 5 with a longer beak that extends to the 'I' in 'AUSTRALIA'. The obverse is unique to the Type 6, the uncrowned effigy in lower relief.   

At some point in 1919, a decision was made to amend the legend from GEORGE V D. G. BRITT: OMN:REX to GEORGIVS V D. G. BRITT: OMN:REX. The amended legend first appeared on the 1919 Type 6 Kookaburra Penny and continued unchanged throughout 1920 and 1921.  

Rarity - One of seven known. A Type 6 Kookaburra Penny would be offered for sale 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 fuller version to the Type 5 and is shared with the Type 4, the beak elongated extending past the 'L' in 'AUSTRALIA' to the 'I', the tail with four feathers, the eye struck incuse. 

Obverse - Uncrowned effigy of George V designed by Australian artist Douglas Richardson and unique to the Type 6. We note the straight hairline behind the ear. The circular legend reads, GEORGIVS V D. G. BRITT: OMN:REX, a legend that was maintained in all 1920 and 1921 designs. The date appears below the portrait with ornamental stops separating it from the legend.