1927 Proof Canberra Florin

The Duke of York officially opened Parliament House in Canberra on 9 May 1927. To cement the occasion into the nation’s psyche, the Government authorised the minting of the Canberra Florin featuring Parliament House on the reverse and George V on the obverse.

While one million coins were struck for circulation, the Melbourne Mint issued 400 limited edition collector coins struck to proof quality.

It was the Melbourne Mint’s very first collector coin issue, the coin selling for a sixpence premium over face value. And it was Australia’s very first commemorative coin.

While 400 may seem on the high side for a pre-decimal proof, any suggestion that the coin is readily available is simply misleading. Finding a top quality example is genuinely difficult. That’s the reality. 

And the reason?

The release of the 1927 Proof Canberra Florin was a well-publicised event that saw the coins sell to members of the public outside traditional numismatic circles.

Coins being mishandled or pieces simply lost into circulation was the fate of many of the proofs out of the original mintage of 400.

The fate of this particular 1927 Proof Canberra Florin was however sealed the minute A H Baldwin laid eyes on it. It’s striking is remarkable. The blanks superb.

This coin was destined to become a prized collectible. It is an exquisite example of the Melbourne Mint's craftsmanship and a numismatic gem.