1927 Proof Canberra Florin minted for one of the most significant events in Australia’s journey to nationhood, the opening of the first Parliamentary buildings in the national capital, Canberra.

If we asked collectors to name the top five most popular and recognised Australian rare coins, without doubt the 1930 Penny would be at the top of the list.

But, the 1927 Proof Canberra Florin would, in all likelihood, be at position number two.

It is a coin that resonates with all Australians and for many collectors it's not a matter of 'if' I will buy a Proof Canberra Florin, it's 'when' I will buy one. 

1. The coin has genuine rarity

While Melbourne Mint records show a mintage of 400, it is generally accepted that the issue did not sell-out, the proposed mintage too optimistic for the size of the collector market at the time. And non-collectors baulking at having to pay a premium over face value to acquire the 'proof'! The unsold coins were melted down, the mintage believed to be as small as 150.

The proofs were gifted to politicians and sold to the public without a case thereby introducing the possibility of mishandling.

So for the buyer that makes quality a priority, the waiting time for a really nice 1927 Proof Canberra Florin can be a minimum of two years. Perhaps even longer.

2. The coin is historically important

The Proof Canberra is Australia's first commemorative coin, minted for one of the most significant events in Australia’s journey to nationhood. The opening of the nation’s first Parliamentary buildings in the national capital in 1927. The coin is distinguished by a unique obverse featuring an enlarged bust of King George V, designed by Sir Edgar Mackennal.

3. The coin has a design that resonates with all Australians

In an article published in the CAB Magazine, February 2007, author and respected numismatist Vince Verheyen declared the 1927 Proof Canberra Florin "arguably Australia's most attractive predecimal silver coin". We can only agree. The reverse of 'Old Parliament House' was designed by George Kruger-Gray.

4. The coin has value and, over the long term, appreciating value

An analysis of auction realisations over the past forty years, confirms the 1927 Proof Canberra Florin is extremely scarce. On average one pristine example is offered every few years. We also note the coin has enjoyed solid price growth. In the 1980s, a Proof 1927 Canberra Florin was selling for approximately $1000 - $1500 at auction. In the 1990s the coin was fetching betwen $4000 - $6000. Two decades later, top quality Proof Canberra Florins are commanding prices in excess of $20,000.