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The shield design appeared on Australia's Sovereigns between 1871 and 1887 inclusive and featured Queen Victoria's Young Head portrait on the obverse. The series boasts three extremely rare dates, all struck at the Melbourne Mint - '1880', '1886' and '1887'. Of those, the year '1886' is the jewel of the series, a world-class rarity and definitely the one to own. Our offer of this coin is made even more remarkable because the highest quality ranking available to collectors of the Melbourne Mint's 1886 Shield Sovereign is Uncirculated. The strike is virtually faultless even to the kiss-curl in front of the ear. Simply miraculous!! Also verging on the miraculous, the coin's state of preservation. This sovereign must have been plucked off the production line soon after it was minted and has been well looked after in the interim. The fields are proof-like. The technical shots shown below confirm the fabulous strike.

We are not sure which excites us more. The coin. Or the asking price. This Proof 1925 Shilling is stunningly brilliant. It is the only known example held by a private collector. And is visually stunning. It's as though you are looking at a pool of molten silver, the obverse in particular is simply spectacular. Under the eye glass we note heavy striations on both obverse and reverse indicating that the dies have been well brushed to ensure precise design definition.

There has never been a better time to buy a Kookaburra Square Penny. The coin is a 'blue-chip' coin rarity. Yet in 2022, prices are a little subdued. This Uncirculated 1921 Kookaburra Penny is offered at $25,000. The price is indicative of a market that has simply forgotten just how extremely rare and important the coin is. We are not phased. It's a pattern that we have seen before amongst Australia's top coin rarities, including the iconic 1930 Penny. Yes, even Australia's favourite copper coin, the 1930 Penny, went through a quiet phase in the lead up to 2022. And it's now taken off and prices have accelerated! Shares, property and rare coins ... subdued prices present great buying opportunities. And at $25,000, this Kookaburra Square Penny is one such opportunity. It’s rare, the quality is fabulous and it’s a definite one-off. The technical shots below re-affirm its superb state.

A provenance says a lot about a coin. And in the case of this Proof 1931 Penny, it speaks volumes. The coin made its first public appearance at Australian Coin Auctions sale in February 2002. The auction was a water-shed moment for the numismatic industry offering proofs that had never been seen before. And realising prices that also had never been seen before. The quality was unprecedented. And twenty years down the track we still haven’t seen anything like it. The vendor indicated that he had bought the collection in the 1950s from renowned collector Roy Farman, who in turn was a close friend of Albert Le Souef, the Deputy Master of the Melbourne Mint. We attended the auction and the competition for acquisition was amazing, the coins selling for prices that trampled pre-auction estimates and catalogue values. This Proof 1931 Penny is a Brilliant FDC, simply a stunning coin. The year '1931' also is one of the scarce dates of the penny series. The combination of quality and rare date saw the coin sell for $26,000, thirty-six per cent over its then catalogue price.

The 1922/21 Overdate Threepence is legendary. It is Australia’s rarest threepence. The coin's influence, however, extends beyond the threepence series for the mintage - believed 900 - is the smallest of any Australian circulation coin. Respected numismatist and author, Greg McDonald, declares the 1922/21 overdate threepence as “one of the true rarities of the Australian series.” And he confirmed this coin is the finest. Paul Hannaford, Director of IAG Auctions, declared this coin as “the most exciting coin I have seen for a while” and concurred with Greg McDonald regarding its quality, and its status as the finest. That this coin has generated such a euphoric response from industry leaders reflects its rarity. Its supreme quality and its standing as the best! Technical shots are provided including a snapshot of the band showing eight pearls.

The Spanish Silver Dollar was the coin that ruled the world. Fabled as pirate plunder, it was the famous ‘piece of eight’ of the Spanish empire and it was the coin that was used – and abused – by nations across the globe. In 1813, Governor Lachlan Macquarie holed and counter stamped the Spanish Silver Dollar to create Australia’s first coins, the Holey Dollar and Dump. And while Macquarie is lauded for his stroke of genius, the reality was the practice of cutting a hole in silver dollars and adapting them as local currency, had been done before, as early as 1760, by the British Colony of Dominica in the Caribbean. This extremely rare 1798 Dominica Holey Dollar was created from a 1797 Mexico Mint Silver Dollar that was pierced with a hole etched by 15 notches. The Dump, also issued in 1798, was the centre plug that fell out of the hole during the striking of the Holey Dollar and features 15 notches, a well-defined script ’D’ and a small star within the ‘D’. Both the Holey Dollar and the Dump show minimal circulation and are extremely well preserved. Moreover the pair is affordable.

There has never been a better time to buy a Kookaburra Square Penny. The coin is a 'blue-chip' coin rarity. Yet in 2022, prices are a little subdued. This Choice Uncirculated 1919 Kookaburra Penny is offered at $35,000. The price is indicative of a market that has simply forgotten just how extremely rare and important the coin is. We are not phased. It's a pattern that we have seen before amongst Australia's top coin rarities, including the iconic 1930 Penny. Yes, even Australia's favourite copper coin, the 1930 Penny, went through a quiet phase in the lead up to 2022. And it's now taken off and prices have accelerated! Shares, property and rare coins ... subdued prices present great buying opportunities. And at $35,000, this Kookaburra Square Penny is one such opportunity. It’s rare, the quality is fabulous and it’s a definite one-off. The technical shots below re-affirm its superb state.

Every coin has a story to tell. Whose hands it has passed through. Where it has been. What commodities did it buy. This 1813 Dump could fill a book! It is a much used – and much loved – example of the nation’s first coin, the 1813 Dump. What is remarkable about this Dump is that, despite its obvious usage, it has not sustained any damage. Circulation has treated it very kindly. The fields are smooth and reflective, the coin has toned to a very handsome light-grey. It is just a really, really pleasant example of the nation’s very first coin and perhaps a great one to put away for children or grandchildren.

This Proof 1899 Half Sovereign was struck at the Melbourne Mint as a presentation piece. A Coin of Record. The coin made its first public appearance in 1903 when it was sold by Sotheby's London as part of the famous John G. Murdoch Collection. Over the last century only one other example has been sighted. The coin's extreme rarity is typical of this sector of the market and the very reason why they are so popular with collectors. And investors. Their scarcity simply gives people the reason to buy. And this glorious turn-of-the-century Proof 1899 Half Sovereign is available now.

This 1852 Adelaide Pound has attracted the highest quality ranking of Gem Uncirculated and is the only example of the nation’s first coin to be so awarded. It is acknowledged industry-wide as the absolute finest. The strike is virtually faultless. Miraculous. At the same time the strike is confounding, that such precision could be achieved given the production problems that were occurring in Adelaide's Government Assay Office. Also verging on the miraculous, the coin's state of preservation. It must have been plucked off the production line as soon as it was minted and has been given extra-special care ever since.

One of the most gratifying aspects of owning a top-quality 1930 Penny is that its design attributes are clearly visible to the naked eye. You do not have to rely on an eye glass to take in its positives. And that's the case with this 1930 Penny. The coin has a complete central diamond and six pearls, strong upper and lower scrolls and well defined inner beading. The surfaces are smooth and highly reflective on both obverse and reverse. That classifies this coin as one of the best, putting it in the top ten per cent. This coin will appeal to the buyer that has always wanted a 1930 Penny and has been looking for a top-grade example. It will also appeal to the investor for high quality 1930 Pennies, such as this coin, are extremely rare. We estimate that we would handle one, or at the very tops two, Very Fine 1930 Pennies annually. Technical shots are provided.

Perfect edges and minimal marks in the fields. That's enough to make a 1930 Penny buyer pounce! This 1930 Penny has been part of the Coinworks stable of rarities for as long as we can recall. Formerly owned by a member of famous 60's Australian rock band, ‘The Groop’, we remember this coin as much for its ties to its legendary owner as to its fabulous quality. It’s one of the nicest 1930 Pennies we have sold. Acquire this 1930 Penny and you will be eager to show it to your family and friends. Even better, it’s such an impressive coin, you know you will get positive feedback. (And perhaps even a touch of envy.) You certainly won’t have to make excuses for the gouges or the rough and ready marks that are evident in most 1930 Pennies. Selecting a good-looking coin is our firm rule for buying 1930 Pennies, irrespective of the quality level. It's a principle that really counts when it comes time for you to realise on your investment and sell. The obverse of this 1930 Penny is graded Good Fine and has a partial central diamond and six plump pearls. The reverse is graded Very Fine and is particularly impressive with strong upper and lower scrolls, prominent ‘1930’ date and intact inner beading.

We like the superior quality of this 1813 Dump and the technical aspects that it presents. And we particularly like the price. At $45,000 you are acquiring a Dump that is in the top ten percent for quality. The fields are highly reflective and the design is sharp and strongly three-dimensional. Technically, it has the 'H’ for Henshall on the reverse, the mark left by the nation’s first mint master guaranteeing his fame. Evidence of the original Spanish Dollar design from which it was created. Intact edge milling. And the elusive ‘dot’ above the ‘3’ in 1813 that author Greg McDonald indicates is rarely ever seen. This is a fabulous example of the nation's first coin. And is available now.

This 1813 Holey Dollar was struck from a Spanish Silver Dollar that was minted in 1777 during the reign of King Charles III of Spain. Now, when it comes to Holey Dollars, Charles III is important. And extremely rare. Of the one hundred and ninety Holey Dollars held by private collectors, only twenty-two were created from silver dollars struck during the reign of Charles III. And this Charles III Holey Dollar is the finest of them all. In fact, we would go one step further and say that its quality state is nothing short of ‘miraculous’. ‘Miraculous’ simply because somehow, the silver dollar escaped the rigours of circulation for thirty-six years from the day it was struck in 1777 until 1813 when it finally came into the hands of the nation’s first mint master, William Henshall, who grabbed it from a barrel. And pounded a hole into it. Its state of preservation is extraordinary and inexplicable and the very reason why at its last auction appearance in Europe, the coin set a new price record. At Extremely Fine this is the finest Charles III Holey Dollar available to collectors. And with the original silver dollar minted in ‘1777’, it is the earliest Charles III Holey Dollar available to collectors.

This Perth Mint Proof 1952 Penny is as good as it gets. The coin is vibrant, like molten copper, the fields super-reflective and as smooth as glass. The edges are perfect and also super-smooth, the denticles pristine. It is quality that is very rarely seen and once sold, it is quality that will be impossible to replace. At its first and only auction appearance in 2013, this Proof 1952 Penny certainly impressed the crowd. Solid bidding at Noble's Auction, saw the coin rapidly move from its pre-sale estimate of $20,000 to a final knockdown of $34,000, seventy per cent over the anticipated sale price. This coin is all class. And while we might sight a Proof 1952 Penny on the market every three to four years. One as dazzling as this coin, is a once in a decade opportunity. And this vibrant Perth Mint Proof 1952 Penny is available now.

This 1923 Halfpenny is fabulous. Fabulous, because the coin has great eye appeal, highly reflective fields, crisp design details and superb edges. But, it's under the eye glass that this coin truly shines. The collector that owns this 1923 Halfpenny, also owned the Holey Dollar and Adelaide Pound we sold late last year. Sold in a flash we add. He pursued Australia's classic coin rarities, the 1930 Penny, 1923 Halfpenny, Holey Dollar and Adelaide Pound, his priorities always that the coins had to be visually appealing. And they had to be technically correct. He waited a long time to acquire this coin and our research confirms the reason why. High quality 1923 Halfpennies are excruciatingly rare. This is the second only Uncirculated 1923 Halfpenny we have sold in our entire career. (Technical shots are provided in the READ MORE section and attest to its supreme state.)

A Trans-Tasman connection was alive and kicking when New Zealander, Henry George Williams, financed the striking of a small number of Proof Halfpennies in 1935 at the Melbourne Mint. In so doing, Williams unwittingly created an Australian 'numismatic star'. The term 'numismatic star' falls well short in describing this particular Proof 1935 Halfpenny. It is a NUMISMATIC SUPER-STAR for the coin has glass-like surfaces and original copper brilliance on both reverse and obverse. Heavy striations reflect zealous preparation of the dies resulting in a superb strike. This coin was sold to the vendor in 2002. It is Melbourne Mint proof coining at its best and offers quality that is seldom seen. A collector will wait decades to acquire proofs of this calibre.

Prime Minister Andrew Fisher fulfilled a promise to the nation when he introduced the Commonwealth of Australia’s first banknote in 1913. The note, a Ten Shillings with the signatories of James Collins and George Allen, enjoyed a grandiose release on 1 May 1913 at Melbourne's King’s Warehouse in front of Australia's political and social elite. The notes were printed in sheets of four and cut into single banknotes. Precisely at 3pm, under the supervision of Note Printer Thomas Harrison, a numbering ceremony began, each note individually numbered by hand in red ink. One hundred and two Presentation Notes were distributed by ballot to ensure a fair distribution, paid with the equivalent of a half sovereign. This Presentation Note is hand-numbered M000091 and was secured in the ballot by Jim Mathews, Federal Member for Melbourne Ports and is sold with his letter confirming success in the ballot. The pristine state of the note suggests that Mathews may have collected his prize (as distinct from being pinned to the letter and sent by mail to the recipient) for this Ten Shillings does not have pinholes. Nor has it been folded. Mathews also managed to secure the signature of the Prime Minister Andrew Fisher on the reverse. This Presentation Note and accompanying ballot letter is an investment in history and is available now.

This 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereign is impressive. In the flesh, the coin sparkles under the light. And the edges are fabulous. The surfaces are highly lustrous and there are minimal marks in the fields. Quite remarkable for a piece that was struck one hundred and sixty-seven years ago. And was denied any kid-gloves treatment during the manufacturing process. Impressive and extremely rare. We might see an 1855 Sovereign, at this quality level, once every year. The 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereign has always been one of our preferred coins. It's the nation’s first official gold currency minted at the Sydney Mint, the nation’s very first mint. Given its history, the coin will always be in demand, today and in the future. And it is the combination of quality, history and rarity that underpins this sovereign's value and its potential into the future for capital growth. And this stunning 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereign is available now, offered at $35,000. For collectors with an eye for detail, there is amazing strength in the crown and in the word 'AUSTRALIA'. The technical shots attest to the glorious state of this coin.

This Choice Uncirculated 1923 Halfpenny is spectacular. To the naked eye it has proof-like highly reflective fields that sparkle and there is underlying copper brilliance. But, it’s under an eye-glass that this coin really shines and upholds its Choice Uncirculated status. The design has been brilliantly executed during the minting process, the diamond is three-dimensional, so too the pearls and the gems in the crown. The tell-tale design elements of the band in the crown, moustache, eyebrow, ear, hair and robes … untouched. Finding a 1923 Halfpenny at the quality level of Choice Uncirculated is extremely challenging. Its the highest quality level you can find and only three are known. (Technical shots are provided in the READ MORE section.)

Acquire this 1930 Penny and you will be eager to show it to your family and friends. Even better, it’s such an impressive coin, you know you will get positive feedback and perhaps even a touch of envy. You certainly won’t have to make excuses for the gouges or the rough and ready marks that are evident in most 1930 Pennies. Selecting a good-looking coin is our firm rule for buying 1930 Pennies, irrespective of the quality level. It's a principle that really counts when it comes time for you to realise on your investment and sell. The obverse of this 1930 Penny is graded Nearly Very Fine and has an almost complete central diamond and six plump pearls. The oval to the left of the diamond is almost complete. The edge of the crown is complete. The reverse is graded Very Fine and also is impressive with strong upper and lower scrolls, prominent ‘1930’ date and intact inner beading. And to kick-start the New Year we are offering this 1930 Penny WITH A PRICE ADVANTAGE of $4500. Technical shots re-affirm our comments.

What better way to celebrate Australia Day than with an Aussie icon, the Proof 1927 Canberra Florin. Particularly with one that is as magnificent as this piece. You are in no doubt when you view this florin that it is indeed a specially struck PROOF 1927 Canberra Florin. A superb FDC with a highly detailed design set against a backdrop of smooth, brilliant fields. And if you think Parliament House looks impressive on the reverse, wait until you see the obverse. The design detail of George V is awesome and the silver fields, which occupy a greater area than the reverse, are like mirrors and blemish-free. They sparkle reflecting the light. It is simply stunning, and our photographer has captured the detail, the smoothness and the coin's brilliance. And if you are technically-minded then we confirm there is heavy striations on both obverse and reverse reflecting solid preparation of the dies producing a pristine strike. And the clincher … there are three solid, uninterrupted Parliamentary steps.

When you look at the photo of this Dump, it almost leaps off the page. And that’s a sign of a high-quality Dump. Then, when you look at the coin in your hand, the design details are crisp and clearly visible to the naked eye. The fields are smooth and reflective and have toned to a beautiful charcoal grey. This is a supreme quality example of the nation’s first coin, ranked in the top EIGHT per cent. Over and above its quality ranking this coin has attributes that are highly prized and the reason why we refer to it as a 'textbook' Dump. They are traits that you simply don't see in every Dump. For a start there is the 'H’ for Henshall on the reverse, the mark left by the nation’s first mint master guaranteeing his fame. There also is evidence of the original Spanish Dollar design from which it was created. Intact edge milling, the minting authority's ploy to prevent clipping of slivers of silver from the edges. And edge denticles that act as a picture-frame to the design. There is additional information below that expands on our introductory comments as well as technical shots that re-affirm the superior state of this 1813 Dump.

This Holey Dollar was created from a Spanish Silver Dollar that was minted in 1808 at the Lima Mint in Peru. The two words ‘LIMA MINT’ are particularly important when it comes to Holey Dollars. Of the two hundred Holey Dollars held by private collectors, perhaps twenty have ties to the Lima Mint which is why we say that while all Holey Dollars are rare, some types are far rarer than others. We note that in a career that is approaching the half-century mark, this is only the FIFTH Holey Dollar we have offered that has ties to the Lima Mint. At Good Extremely Fine, this coin is the very finest Lima Mint Holey Dollar available to collectors. Its superior quality and aesthetic appeal was the very reason why it was included in two major Holey Dollar Exhibitions. At the Macquarie Bank, 1 Martin Place Sydney in 2013. And at the Royal Australian Mint, Denison Street Canberra in 2019.

A Trans-Tasman connection was alive and kicking when New Zealander, Henry George Williams, financed the striking of a small number of Proof Pennies in 1935 at the Melbourne Mint. In so doing, Williams unwittingly created an Australian 'numismatic star'. The term 'numismatic star' falls well short in describing this particular Proof 1935 Penny. It is a NUMISMATIC SUPER-STAR for the coin has glass-like surfaces and original copper brilliance on both reverse and obverse. Heavy striations reflect zealous preparation of the dies resulting in a superb strike. This coin was sold to the vendor in 2002. It is Melbourne Mint proof coining at its best and offers quality that is seldom seen. A collector will wait decades to acquire proofs of this calibre.

Australians just love their coppers ... the Penny and the Halfpenny. They are the coins that were within financial reach of the 'man in the street'. Whereas the sovereign was the domain of the privileged few, a copper coin could be enjoyed by everyone. And in top quality or struck to glorious proof quality, the coin became a numismatic treasure. We have put together a treasure trove of six coins for you to enjoy, four stunning proof coins struck at the Melbourne Mint. And two elite coins that were struck as circulating currency, also at the Melbourne Mint. By virtue of their quality and rarity, each coin is at the pinnacle of its type.

A coin can be rare because so few examples were struck. A coin can also be rare because it has quality traits that make it the absolute exception to the norm, placing it into an elite and very small group of examples. This Proof 1948 Penny is rare on both counts! The original mintage is believed to be sixteen with most of the examples going to public institutions and therefore out of reach of collectors. And the quality is stunning. So that you can appreciate the rarity of a coin at this quality level, we make the comment that we have sold only one other Proof 1948 Penny that we would describe as stunning. And that was acquired by us in 1998 and sold more recently in 2017. We make a further comment. When we wrote our article on the Perth Mint Proof Record pieces we came to realise just how few truly fabulous Perth proofs are around. It is an ominous sign from a supply perspective. It may also be a sign that prices are set to rise. (Technical shots are provided)

This Proof 1936 Halfpenny was struck as a Coin of Record at the Melbourne Mint. It is dramatic. And it is impressive. Furthermore it is extremely rare. The coin first came to our attention in July 2001, when it was offered at Noble's Auction, Melbourne. The auction house acknowledged its superb state by classifying it as FDC and setting a sale price estimate of $6000, considered a strong price at the time. Bidders at the auction were in agreement with Noble's assessment of the coin. Solid bidding took the final price to $7015, seventeen per cent over the anticipated sale price. This coin in the flesh reflects the light like a piece of glass and radiates stunning colours. The edges are well polished. Whoever brushed the dies to prepare them for the strike did so with gusto, for there are strong striations on both sides of the coin indicating that the dies were carefully prepared to ensure a crisp and strongly three-dimensional design. One of only five known, this stunning, yet affordable Melbourne Mint proof striking is available now.

This is a magnificent Proof 1956 Penny struck at the Perth Mint and the quality is what we have come to expect from Dr. Vince Verheyen. The colour is vivid and intense, the surfaces impactful. The designs of the flying kangaroo and Queen Elizabeth II are beautifully etched. Furthermore, the coin shows the classic high squared-off rims that the Perth Mint was, at the time, renowned for. The Proof 1956 Penny is one of the greatest rarities to come out of the Perth Mint, struck in a very tight mintage of 417 coins. That makes it extremely rare. Dr. Vince Verheyen is one of the most revered Australian proof coin collectors and an authority on proof coinage. This is unequivocally, one of the best Perth Mint Proof 1956 Pennies around.

This Proof 1917 Sixpence is a heritage piece. It is a clue to our past and is an acknowledgment of the evolution of the Australian numismatic industry. In 1916, the Melbourne Mint commenced striking Australia's silver coinage. Consumed with striking coins for circulation, the Melbourne Mint did not strike any proofs. The Mint continued its obligations to Treasury in striking circulating currency in 1917 but took up the mantle of striking proofs. Which means that this stunningly rare Proof 1917 Sixpence is the Melbourne Mint's very first proof striking of the nation’s silver coinage. It is a Coin of Record in the truest sense and is one of two known in private hands. Testimony to its importance, an example is held for posterity in the archives of the Museum of Victoria. You can tell by looking at this coin that it was minted as a presentation piece. The original silver blanks have been polished to achieve a dazzling mirror shine. And there is strong striations in the fields indicating that the dies were heavily brushed and well prepared to achieve a brilliant strike. We note that it was once held in 'The Madrid Collection of Australian Rare Coins'.

We are going to let the photographs do most of ''the talking" on this impressive ‘Diamond and Pearl’ 1930 Penny. Suffice to say that at Good Extremely Fine, this 1930 Penny has a complete central diamond and eight clear pearls. And it is the presence of the eight pearls in the crown that makes this coin particularly special, identifying it as a leading 1930 Penny and an exception to those most commonly sighted. Of the one thousand-plus 1930 Pennies in existence today, we rate this coin as Number 3 in the pecking order. (Technical shots are provided.)

The 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereign is an important Australian coin. It is our very first sovereign struck at the nation's very first mint. And it is extremely rare in the supreme quality offered here which makes this coin 'doubly' important. Dealers are aware. As are collectors. Uncirculated 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereigns are rarely ever offered. We checked our records and noted that we last sold an Uncirculated 1855 Sovereign in May 2017, more than four years ago. TECHNICAL SHOTS are provided and re-affirm the superb state of this coin.

This Proof 1936 Penny was struck as a Coin of Record at the Melbourne Mint. And while eighty-five years have elapsed since the coin was minted, it retains its copper brilliance on both reverse and obverse having been brilliantly preserved. The fields are like copper-glass, the edges are well polished. Whoever brushed the dies to prepare them for the strike did so with gusto, for there are strong striations on both sides of the coin indicating that the dies were carefully prepared to ensure a crisp and strongly three-dimensional design. We close off with the comment that Coinworks has, over the last two years, sold some magnificent copper proofs all of which have come back from clients that have held them for close to two decades. And that stock has been steadily diminishing. This coin is quite possibly one of the last of the George V copper proofs to come from our 'original' inventory. It is an ominous sign from a supply perspective. It may also be a sign that prices are set to rise.

The Proof 1923 Penny is an acknowledged ‘great’ Australian coin rarity. It is unique. And to add further to its fame, the year is connected with Australia’s rarest halfpenny in the 1923 Halfpenny. The Proof 1923 Penny was struck as a Coin of Record at the Melbourne Mint and is a glorious proof striking, the fields as smooth and as reflective as glass. Under magnification, striations are noted on both obverse and reverse. There is underlying copper brilliance on the reverse and also on the obverse. The design is strongly three-dimensional, the denticles crisp and uniformly spaced, the edges highly polished. This stunning Proof 1923 Penny appeared at auction in July 1998, the coin selling for $9900, more than triple its pre-auction estimate. While the quality was enough to gain bidder attention, it was the rarity that drove the price for up until July 1998, a Proof 1923 Penny had never been sighted. And to this day it is the only Proof 1923 Penny known in private hands.

The Kookaburra Square Pennies were struck in 1919, 1920 and 1921 at the Melbourne Mint. Only two designs were tested in 1921 and they are known as the Type 11 and the Type 12. In our view, the Type 11 is the one to own. While both are scarce, the Type 11 is the rarer of the two (by far). And visually, it is extremely attractive, the surfaces proof-like and compelling, perhaps due to the appointment of passionate collector, Albert Le Souef, to the role of Deputy Master of the Melbourne Mint. Of course, how a coin starts at the mint - and how it ends up one hundred years later having passed through several collector's hands - can be poles apart. When you look at this Square Penny you can see that it has been cherished by its former owners for it has been brilliantly preserved. Technical shots are provided and they confirm its stunning qualities.

The Kookaburra Pennies were struck in 1919, 1920 and 1921. If you are fortunate enough to be offered all three dates, then you should pounce on the coin dated 1920, simply because of its extreme rarity. That scarcity has underpinned considerable capital growth. This 1920 Kookaburra Square Penny has what we call the Type 7 design. In the early 70s, you could pick up a Type 7 for less than $1000. By the 80s prices had moved to $5000 and doubled to $10,000 by the 90s. In 2000 we note we sold a Type 7 Kookaburra Penny for $20,000. Today more than twenty years later, this 1920 Kookaburra Square Penny is offered at $65,000. That is a consistent and enviable growth path for one of Australia's leading coin rarities.

This Proof 1924 Sixpence was struck as a Coin of Record at the Melbourne Mint during the tenure of Mr A M Le Souef as the mint’s Deputy Master. It is a superb Gem FDC. The Melbourne Mint reached its pinnacle during Le Souef’s term, particularly in the striking of its silver proofs, perhaps a reflection of his personal passion for silver coinage. This Proof 1924 Sixpence was not struck for collectors as part of any mass-marketing sales campaign. It was struck for the mint's archives and the privileged few. Because it was a specially arranged striking of presentation pieces, only a handful were struck. The original silver blanks were hand selected and polished to achieve a dazzling mirror shine. Furthermore, the coin has strong striations in the fields indicating that the dies were heavily brushed and well prepared to achieve a brilliant strike. This Proof 1924 Sixpence is well preserved and has obviously been cherished in the intervening years. We note that it was formerly held in 'The Madrid Collection of Australian Rare Coins'.

We have handled some spectacular copper proofs in our time, but this coin is quite possibly the absolute finest of them all. The reverse of this Proof 1921 Penny is simply sensational with full copper brilliance, crisp and uniformly spaced denticles, the rims highly polished. And that's not to decry the obverse for it also has full mint red. It is easy to overlook the fact that this coin was struck one hundred years ago to the year. It is a miraculous proof striking. The coin appeared at auction in August 1999. Described as brilliant with full original mint red, it sold for $11,800, the pre-auction estimate was $6000. While the quality was exceptional, it was the rarity that drove the price for up until August 1999, a Proof 1921 Penny had never been sighted. And to this day it is the only Proof 1921 Penny known in private hands.

The Sir Marcus Clark 1860 Aborigine Threepence is unequivocally an Australian Numismatic Treasure. It became an overnight sensation when the piece first publicly appeared at James Lawson’s Auctions in 1954, the property of Sir Marcus Clarke KBE. The earliest numismatic depiction of an Aboriginal Australian and offered in a superb mint-state, the piece sold for the massive price of £38. For the 50-plus years that I have been involved in the industry, it has always been known as “The Sir Marcus Clark Aborigine Threepence”. It is an industry icon and of the seven other known examples, this piece is the absolute finest of them all.

There are some coins that stay firmly fixed in your memory. Coins that are exciting for the extraordinary quality traits they possess. And this 1930 Penny is one of them, last sighted by us in 2003 when we sold it to a Shepparton collector. Yes, the coin has circulated which reflects our obverse grading of About Very Fine. BUT the years of usage have treated it very, very kindly. It is an original, intact, well struck 1930 Penny with glossy fields and minimal signs of usage. If there is one thing that the past eighteen years has taught us is that you do not see 1930 Pennies like this every day. Or every month. Or every year for that matter!

The Perth Mint has struck many of Australia's greatest coin rarities including this fabulous 1918 Half Sovereign. The coin is offered in the premium grade of Choice Uncirculated and it is the addition of the word ‘CHOICE’ that makes this coin the absolute exception, a step up from Uncirculated and poles apart from those 1918 Half Sovereigns most frequently sighted. The coin has lustrous obverse fields and majestic satin reverse fields. The strike is strong, the design highly detailed. We remark on the strength in the rider’s leg …. an inherent area of weakness in most 1918 Half Sovereigns. We also remark that this is only the fourth Choice Uncirculated 1918 Half Sovereign we have sold. This is a great coin offered at a great price of $18,000.

The Perth Mint has struck many of Australia's greatest pre-decimal coin rarities, including this 1918 Half Sovereign. It is an important coin on many fronts. Australia struck its last half sovereign in 1918, making it a highly historical date. The end of an era. And it is extremely rare. Respected numismatic author, Greg McDonald, contends that only 200 to 300 pieces are available to collectors. Important. Extremely rare. And available at $12,500. Excellent buying.

There was an explosion in real estate prices in Melbourne in 1889. And land speculation on a grand scale. Melbourne was booming. So too were the coining presses at the Melbourne Mint, records indicating that the mint churned out 2.7 million sovereigns. To create a permanent and everlasting record of its achievements, the Melbourne Mint struck the Proof 1889 Sovereign as a Coin of Record. True to form, only two examples have been sighted over the past sixty years, this coin last publicly offered in March 1988 at the now famous Bicentennial Spink Auction. Noted as being brilliant and flawless, the coin sold for $9000 on a pre-auction estimate of $6000. Only one other example has surfaced over the last century and that was in March 1985, a pattern of long-term holding so typical of this area of the market.

A 'Diamond and Pearl' 1930 Penny is for the buyer that is seeking one of the best examples of the nation's favourite copper coin. The obverse is impressive and shows a full central diamond and the smudging of the seventh and eighth pearls and its their presence that places this 1930 Penny in the 'extremely rare' category. The reverse is equally impressive with well-defined inner beading, crisp upper and lower scrolls and a strong '1930' date. On both obverse and reverse, the toning is even and handsome. The fields show minimal signs of circulation and are smooth. We rank this coin in the top five per cent with the comment that a 1930 Penny of this calibre might be offered once every two to three years. Already have a 1930 Penny? Then consider trading it back as part-payment on this stunning coin. Technical photos of both obverse and reverse are provided below and confirm our assessment of the coin.

Following the closure of the Sydney Mint in 1926, the responsibility for striking Australia's circulating currency fell on the Melbourne Mint. In 1928 the Melbourne Mint was at full capacity striking every denomination of Australia’s coinage, the copper penny and halfpenny and the four silver coins of the florin, shilling, sixpence and threepence. If you include the sovereigns that were struck in 1928, the Melbourne Mint churned out more than 16 million coins! To create an everlasting record of their minting achievements, the Melbourne struck each denomination as a Coin of Record, the coins struck to proof quality. This coin is one such COIN OF RECORD and is a PROOF 1928 FLORIN. Three are known, this example noted as selling at Nobles Auction in 2001 for $23,000 on a pre-auction estimate of $19,500. The coin was eventually sold to the Madrid Collection of Australian Rare Coins where it has remained ever since.

This Proof Half Sovereign was struck at the Melbourne Mint in 1893 and is exceedingly rare. Only two other examples have surfaced over the last century. At its first and only auction appearance in 2005, the coin sold for $56,000 on a pre-auction estimate of $30,000. Testimony to the scarcity of coins in this sector of the market, another proof half sovereign of this date and design has not surfaced since.

We first sighted this spectacular Proof 1952 Halfpenny in 2009. The coin was part of a large collection of rarities that had been put together in the 1980s by a leading Melbourne proof coin collector. His collection was consistently brilliant for he was driven by quality and had a keen eye for detail. While we are not at liberty to identify the owner, we can say that he was an expert on Australia’s proof coinage and the author of many articles on the same. This coin follows the rule that great collectors only ever own great coins.

This 1813 Dump comes with impeccable credentials. The coin set a new world record in 2004 when it was offered at Stacks Auction, New York. The coin was at the time the personal property of influential American dealer, John J. Ford. What makes a coin a record-breaker? The answer is simple. When the design has been so well executed during the minting process that the coin is the exception rather than the rule. And when its state of preservation verges on the miraculous. John J Ford's 1813 Dump has quality traits that are unique to this coin. The strike is exceptionally strong. And its state of preservation is miraculous.

This 1930 Penny is very impressive. It is a classy coin. The edges are complete and the important design details such as the upper and lower scrolls, the inner beading that circles the value of ‘ONE PENNY’, the legend and the date ‘1930’ are all prominent. And the toning is a consistent and handsome chestnut brown. Take up a magnifying glass and you notice that the fields on both obverse and reverse show minimal signs of circulation. And while the quality should be enough to gain buyer attention, the gifting of Australia's rarest halfpenny, the 1923 Halfpenny, makes this 1930 Penny irresistible buying. Technical shots are provided below.

A coin can be rare because so few examples were struck. A coin can also be rare because it has quality traits that make it the absolute exception to the norm, placing it into an elite and very small group of examples. This Proof 1953 Penny is rare on both counts! The original mintage is believed to be twenty with most of the examples going to public institutions and therefore out of reach of collectors. And the quality is spectacular. So that you can appreciate the rarity of a coin at this dazzling quality level, we make the comment that we have sold only one other Proof 1953 Penny that we would describe as spectacular. And that was nine years ago to a Melbourne collector.

This 1813 Dump is a very rare example of the nation’s first fifteen pence. Struck from a die combination that historians refer to as obverse die ‘E’ and reverse die ‘3’, less than twenty examples are known. Historians suggest that due to the crude nature of the E/3 Dumps, they may have been trials presented to Governor Lachlan Macquarie before production officially commenced. We note the traces of the original Spanish Dollar design (undertype) on the reverse. This is the only E/3 example that we have seen or handled to show the undertype.

The 1930 Penny that is in this collection is a star in its own right. The coin is very impressive. The edges are complete and the important design details such as the upper and lower scrolls, the inner beading that circles the value of ‘ONE PENNY’, the legend and the date ‘1930’ are all prominent. And the toning is a consistent and a handsome chestnut brown. Take up a magnifying glass and you notice that the fields on both obverse and reverse show minimal signs of circulation. And while the quality of this 1930 Penny should be enough to gain buyer attention, its inclusion in a complete collection of Australian pennies (1911 to 1964) makes this offer irresistible buying. Technical shots are provided below.

The collecting pursuits of legendary numismatist and author Philip Spalding extended well beyond the nation's colonial coins. Spalding was a long-term owner of Australia's proof coinage: a collection that included this spectacular Melbourne Mint, Proof 1924 Penny. He appreciated the magnificence of proof coins. And with full copper brilliance on the reverse and stunning purple / blue colours on the obverse this Proof 1924 Penny is indeed a magnificent proof. Spalding also relished the exclusivity of Australia's proof coins. And with only three other known examples, this Proof 1924 Penny had the exclusivity that Spalding was seeking. And Philip Spalding's Proof 1924 Penny is available now.

This 1813 Dump is an inordinately rare example of the nation’s first fifteen pence. Struck from a die combination that historians refer to as obverse die ‘C’ and reverse die ‘4’, eight examples are known. Historians suggest that due to the crude nature of the C/4 Dumps, they may have been trials presented to Governor Lachlan Macquarie before production officially commenced. Over and above the rarity of the C/4 Dumps, the quality of this coin is superior. It is one of the finest of the C/4s.

This 1930 Penny has a full central diamond and six plump pearls and it is these two aspects, the diamond and the pearls, that classifies this coin as one of the very best, in the top ten per cent. This coin will appeal to the buyer that has always wanted a 1930 Penny and has been looking for a top-grade example. It will also appeal to the investor for high quality 1930 Pennies, such as this coin, are extremely rare. We estimate that we would handle one, or at the very tops two, Very Fine 1930 Pennies annually.

This Proof 1899 Sovereign was struck at the Melbourne Mint as a presentation piece. The coin made its first public appearance in 1903 when it was sold by Sotheby's London as part of the famous John G. Murdoch Collection. Over the last century only one other example has been sighted. The coin's extreme rarity is typical of this sector of the market and the very reason why they are so popular with collectors. And investors. Their scarcity simply gives people the reason to buy. And this glorious turn-of-the-century Proof 1899 Sovereign is available now.

Nine times out of ten, when people approach us about selling their collection of pennies, the holding is missing the elusive 1930 Penny. That was not the case with this collector. A retired pharmacist, his interest in numismatics commenced in his late teens when he began working in his father’s chemist shop. When the time came to take over the family business, he had the financial capacity to fill the last hole in his collection and acquire the very valuable and iconic 1930 Penny. This offer is comprised of a complete collection of Australian pennies 1911 to 1964 housed in a Dansco Album (78 coins).

The Kookaburra Square Penny was planned as a new Australian coinage, a new shape, a new design and the new metal of cupro-nickel. The coins that were produced as part of this test phase were handed to dignitaries and politicians to assess their reaction. But, this particular Square Penny was never going to be passed around or handed over. It was especially struck as a collector’s item in STERLING SILVER for the personal collection of Mr. Albert Malet Le Souef, Deputy Master of the Melbourne Mint. It is unique. This coin is a numismatic prize, a trophy piece. A Square Penny depicting the Type 4 design, struck in Sterling Silver.

Ray Jewell was a foremost Australian collector and a highly respected professional, his involvement in the industry spanning more than three decades. He set the bar very high when it came to collecting proofs. A coin that was owned by Ray Jewell had to be rare and had to be top quality, traits that were duly acknowledged by the broader collector market whenever his coins came up at public auction. This Proof 1928 Shilling was a crowd-pleaser and a record breaker all along the way, selling in July 1993 for $11,000 on an estimate of $4000. And in the year 2000 selling for $22,540 on a pre-auction estimate of $15,000. In 2003, this numismatic gem was sold to the owner of the Madrid Collection of Australian Rare Coins where it has remained ever since.

There is an expectation that Coinworks will always be able to provide a high-quality rare coin 'at the drop of a hat' ... that we will always have access to top quality material. While it is true for most of Australia's classic coin rarities, in the case of the nation's first half sovereign - the 1855 Sydney Mint Half Sovereign - that is a formidable, almost impossible ask. There are perhaps forty examples of the 1855 Sydney Mint Half Sovereign available to collectors which is in itself a tiny number. And of those, we deem that only three coins are problem-free and have great eye appeal and, interestingly, they have all come from noted collections. This coin is one of the three, ranked as number two in the pecking order. This is a momentous offering.

Albert Le Souef was Deputy Master of the Melbourne Mint when this Proof 1924 Halfpenny was struck. His passion for numismatics - and his commitment to quality - is somehow entrenched in the proofs out of this era. Visually this Proof 1924 Halfpenny is a stunner. We have not handled finer. The coin glows like 'molten copper', with full brilliance on the obverse and the same molten glow on the reverse. The design definition is sharp, the fields ice-smooth and highly reflective. This is proof coining at its very best. What makes a great coin even greater is that it is extremely rare. And comes with a revered provenance. This Proof 1924 Halfpenny is one of only four known and has been previously owned by the legendary Philip Spalding.

Every couple of years we come across a 1930 Penny that is a genuine bargain. It doesn't happen very often, but when it does happen, we grab it with both hands knowing that Australia’s classic coin rarity is wanted at all dollar levels. And all quality levels. This 1930 Penny has one side of the central diamond and six pearls on the obverse. The reverse has strong upper and lower scrolls and complete inner beading. This is an impressive 1930 Penny offered at an even more impressive price of $23,500. Technical shots are shown below.

This 1945 Penny was held in the Museum of Victoria Collection until 2009. The coin is Australia's rarest penny. By a mile. Now let's be clear. And don't get excited if you happen to have a 1945 Penny in your bottom drawer! More than ten million pennies were struck in 1945 at the Perth Mint making it one of Australia's most readily available pennies, a dot after the 'Y' in 'PENNY' identifying that it was struck at Perth. The Melbourne Mint, on the other hand, struck only four pennies in 1945 - minus the dot. The four prized coins were retained by the mint for posterity. And this example is one of the four. In a market that values rarity - and quality - above all else, this coin takes the prize for it is the nation's rarest penny. A superb FDC, a full brilliant red on both obverse and reverse, this magnificent piece of Australian numismatic history is available now.

There are two aspects to this 1918 Perth Mint Half Sovereign that must be noted. The first is that the coin is presented as Choice Uncirculated. The addition of the word ‘CHOICE’ takes the quality to a level that is the absolute exception and very rarely seen. A step up from Uncirculated, the coin has satin fields and a strong strike. We remark on the strength in the rider’s leg …. an inherent area of weakness in most 1918s. The second aspect that must be noted is that the 1918 Perth Mint Half Sovereign is rare. Respected numismatic author, Greg McDonald, contends that only 200 to 300 pieces are available to collectors. This is a world class coin rarity presented in the supreme quality of Choice Uncirculated and, for the record, this coin is only the third example - in Choice Uncirculated - that we have ever handled. Also for the record, this 1918 Half Sovereign has an obverse vertical die crack that runs from the head of George V to the moustache, adding further to its appeal. (Technical shots are provided below.)

The Perth Mint has struck many of Australia's greatest pre-decimal coin rarities, including this 1918 Half Sovereign. It is an important coin on many fronts. That Australia struck its last half sovereign in 1918 makes it a highly historical date. The coin signals the end of an era. And it is extremely rare. Respected numismatic author, Greg McDonald, contends that only 200 to 300 pieces are available to collectors. In summary, the 1918 Perth Mint Half Sovereign is an historically important coin. It is extremely rare. And is available at $12,500. Which all adds up to excellent buying. (Technical shots are provided.)

The very first issue of the Cerutty Collins Fifty Pounds occurred in 1920 - a century ago - the notes featuring a 'Y' prefix with serial numbers in the range 083846 to 176000. Which means that this fifty quid, with serial number Y110704, came from the first issue of the Cerutty Collins Fifty Pounds. FIRST ISSUE. Two words that are music to a banknote collector’s ears. Now add another two words that are particularly special to collectors. EXTREMELY RARE for only three other examples out of the first issue of the Cerutty Collins Fifty Pounds exist. A validation of the respect held for this note, it is photographed in Mick Vort Ronald’s reference book, Australian Banknote Pedigrees, Second Edition, page 396.

This Proof 1901/1951 Florin was struck as a presentation piece at the Royal Mint London as the prototype of Australia’s newly designed Federation florin. Extremely rare, three are held by private collectors and this coin is one of the three. A fourth is held in the Museum of Victoria, acquired by the museum in 1986, the salient point here being that it was bought by (and not gifted to) the museum. There is one thing we know for sure about Australian museums and public institutions and their coin acquisitions. They hardly ever go out into a collector environment and buy inventory unless the piece is integral to Australia’s national story. And the Proof 1901/1951 Federation Florin was integral to the museum's story and integral to our national story.

You are in no doubt when you view this 1927 Florin that it is indeed a PROOF 1927 Canberra Florin. The silver fields are like mirrors. They sparkle reflecting the light and are the perfect backdrop to the regal design of Parliament House on the reverse and King George V on the obverse. There is magnificent pale peach toning on the periphery of the obverse. And a hint of same on the reverse. This is a superb proof striking from the Melbourne Mint celebrating the opening of Parliament House in Canberra.

There are some coins that, as dealers, you never forget. The state in which they are presented is so impactful, they make a lasting impression. Nor can you ever forget the occasion when they were first sighted. And so it is with this Proof 1947 Penny. The quality is absolutely stunning, highly reflective violet-red fields, the coin simply glows. The occasion was Nobles Sydney Auction March 1996 when we sat in the auction room fighting off a trove of room and postal bidders to secure this prized gem. The photographs confirm its extraordinary condition. And we can confirm its rarity. We have only ever handled three Proof 1947 Pennies, this coin the finest by far.

Mr A. M. Le Souef was Deputy Master of the Melbourne Mint when this Proof 1924 Shilling was struck ... and doesn't it show. The coin was not struck for collectors as part of any mass-marketing sales campaign. It was struck for the mint's archives and the privileged few and Le Souef would have been the impetus behind the strike. Because it was a specially arranged striking of proof quality presentation pieces, only a handful were struck. The original silver blanks were hand selected and polished to achieve a dazzling mirror shine. Furthermore, the coin has strong striations in the fields indicating that the dies were heavily brushed and well prepared. Strong striations in the fields equate to a brilliant strike and this is indeed the case with this coin. Over and above its brilliant strike, this coin is well preserved and has obviously been cherished in the intervening years. We note that it bears the name Philip Spalding as one of its former owners.

This coin is for the buyer that is seeking a supreme quality 1930 Penny. On the obverse, the coin has a full central diamond and strong evidence of the rarely seen seventh and eighth pearls. The reverse is equally impressive with well-defined inner beading, crisp upper and lower scrolls and a strong '1930' date. On both obverse and reverse, the toning is even and handsome. The fields show minimal signs of circulation and are smooth. We would place this coin in the top five per cent of surviving examples. Now, it is a fact that the most frequently sighted 1930 Penny is a well circulated Fine. This coin, at Good Very Fine, is at least five grades higher. A 1930 Penny at this quality level would be offered on the market, perhaps once every few years. And this great coin rarity is available now. Already have a 1930 Penny? Then consider trading it back as part-payment on this stunning coin. Technical photos of both obverse and reverse are provided below.

The buyer of this 1813 Dump will take pride in knowing that the coin was formerly held as part of the legendary Osborne Collection. The buyer will also take pride in knowing that this Dump was exhibited in 2019, at the Royal Australian Mint Canberra, in the 'All That Is Holey' Exhibition. The coin was a natural contender for inclusion in the exhibition. It was struck from the very rare D/2 dies. And with a quality grading of Nearly Extremely Fine, rests in the top three per cent of D/2 examples. It is clearly one of the best. But it was the strong evidence of the original Spanish Dollar design, that was the clincher for its inclusion in the Exhibition. It is acknowledged that Australia's first Mint Master, William Henshall, applied heat during the coining process to obliterate the original Spanish Dollar design from the Dump. He majorly slipped up with this coin for there is extensive evidence of the design elements of the original Spanish Dollar, the lion and the castle and the cross bars of the shield. Traces of the Spanish Dollar design are rarely seen and highly prized. This 1813 Dump is an acknowledged industry showpiece and is available now.

This 1930 Penny is very impressive. It is a classy coin. The edges are complete and the important design details such as the upper and lower scrolls, the inner beading that circles the value of ‘ONE PENNY’, the legend and the date ‘1930’ are all prominent. And the toning is a consistent and handsome chestnut brown. Take up a magnifying glass and you notice that the fields on both obverse and reverse show minimal signs of circulation. And while the quality should be enough to gain buyer attention, the gifting of a Choice Uncirculated Melbourne Mint 1930 Sovereign makes this 1930 Penny irresistible buying. Technical shots are provided below.

Governor Lachan Macquarie enlisted the services of convicted forger William Henshall to carry out the role of Australia's first mint master. Henshall manufactured the nation's first coins in 1813, a Fifteen Pence and a Five Shillings. We know them today as the Dump and the Holey Dollar. For the buyer that is keen to grab a piece of Australian history and acquire an 1813 Dump, we offer six reasons why this coin is worth owning. At About Very Fine this Dump is, quality-wise, well above average. The design is well centred, the legend and crown clear and legible. Importantly, the edge denticles are complete. The oblique milling (a deterrent for clipping) is fully evident. Henshall's mark of his initials 'H' is present. And the sixth reason to own this coin? That has got to be the price, for this 1813 Dump is offered at the very attractive price of $20,000.

History has judged British entrepreneur William Taylor a 'big noter'. He aspired to own and operate a private mint in Melbourne and create a new gold coinage for the colonies. The mint was called the Kangaroo Office and opened in 1854. Taylor ultimately embraced other metals and struck coins in silver and copper, aluminium and even pewter. Taylor’s coins were described in the Numismatic Chronicle of 1864 as “An interesting record of what the most prosperous colony England has ever founded intended as their national coinage." The coins issued by the Kangaroo Office are great colonial rarities and have been owned by leading international collectors, the U.K.'s Hyman Montague, Egypt's King Farouk and America's John Jay Pitman. And respected local collectors include Philip Spalding and Tom Hadley, of Quartermaster fame. We can certainly attest to their rarity having sold only two plain edged Silver Kangaroo Office Sixpences over the last twenty years.

This Ten Dollar Phillips Randall banknote has the prefix/serial number ZSF 16769*. Key points of this banknote are as follows. The six-pointed asterisk indicates that it is an especially printed Star replacement note. The prefix ZSF indicates that this note was printed in the very first print run of Phillips Randall Ten Dollar Star Notes and that makes this note particularly important. Brilliantly preserved, the note is offered in Uncirculated quality. FIRST PREFIX and UNCIRCULATED. Three words that are music to a banknote collector’s ears. Now, let us add another two words that are particularly special to collectors. EXTREMELY RARE for fewer than ten comparable quality first prefix Phillips Randall Ten Dollar ‘stars’ have come onto the market over the last twenty years.

This Proof 1932 Halfpenny was first publicly offered at auction in August 1999. Auctioned as lot 3183, the appearance of both the Proof 1932 Halfpenny and its higher denomination counterpart, the Proof 1932 Penny, instigated frenetic bidding, the halfpenny selling for nearly forty per cent above its pre-auction estimate. This coin has all the hallmarks of proof coining. Glossy square edges. Superb mirror-like fields on both obverse and reverse, the opaline colours emanating from the reverse are in particular simply glorious. Extremely rare, this coin is one of only two known examples of the Proof 1932 Halfpenny, this being the finer of the two.

If only this coin could talk. This Spanish Two Reales began its life in 1774 at the Lima Mint in Peru and features the portrait of the Spanish King Charles III. Somehow it ended up nearly 13,000 kilometers away in the penal colony of New South Wales and was formally counter stamped with the name of the mysterious 'T. Knight'. And it is the counter stamp that clearly identifies this piece as having circulated in the colony and confirms its status as a coin from the Proclamation era. Furthermore, this piece is unique.

This Proof 1928 Penny was first offered at Spink Auctions in 1981. And made a second appearance at Nobles Auction in 1991. On both occasions the coin sold, the prices realised far exceeding the pre-auction estimates. Looking at the coin in the flesh its easy to understand why. The extent of original copper brilliance is simply awesome. The surfaces are like a copper mirror. This is proof coining at its best. Moreover the coin is rare. Six examples of the Proof 1928 Penny are known, this being one of the finest of the six. This is a rare opportunity to acquire an important piece of Australia's minting history formerly owned by renowned Commonwealth coin collector, Richard Williams.

Mr A. M. Le Souef was Deputy Master of the Melbourne Mint when this Proof 1924 Florin was struck ... and doesn't it show. The coin was not struck for collectors as part of any mass-marketing sales campaign. It was struck for the mint's archives and the privileged few and Le Souef would have been the impetus behind the strike. Because it was a specially arranged striking of proof quality presentation pieces, only a handful were struck. The original silver blanks were hand selected and polished to achieve a dazzling mirror shine. Furthermore, the coin has strong striations in the fields indicating that the dies were heavily brushed and well prepared. Strong striations in the fields equate to a brilliant strike and this is indeed the case with this coin. Over and above its brilliant strike, this coin is well preserved and has obviously been cherished in the intervening years. We note that it bears the name Philip Spalding as one of its former owners.

The essential characteristics of proof coins are highly polished fields, fully reproduced designs free from any flaw, and square edges. This description provided by numismatist and author Greg McDonald may well have been written for this Proof 1929 Penny. Struck at the Melbourne Mint to create an everlasting vestige of its role in striking Australia’s copper coinage in 1929, this coin is as important as it is rare. Only three other examples are known. This Proof 1929 Penny has full copper brilliance on the reverse and underlying brilliance on the obverse. The fields are smooth, the design deeply etched.

This extremely rare 1811 Trinidad Holey Dollar was created from an 1808 Mexico Mint Silver Dollar that was pierced to create a plain cut, octagonal edged hole. So, while Governor Lachlan Macquarie was coining his Holey Dollars in Sydney in 1813, similar schemes had already been hatched across the other side of the globe, including the British Commonwealth Island of Trinidad. Irrespective of the issuing authority - New South Wales, Trinidad, Dominica or Canada's Prince Edward Island - the Holey Dollar is an internationally respected colonial coin that began its life as a Spanish Silver Dollar. Extremely rare and highly sought after.

Amazing but true, proof coining is a tradition that goes back centuries, as evidenced by this fabulous collection of nine 'Proclamation' proof coins from the era 1787 to 1804. For most collectors, the Proclamation era is seen as the beginning of numismatics in Australia.

Every dealer has an item, be it a coin or a banknote, that is close to their heart. In the case of industry figurehead, Barrie Winsor, that item is this 1910 Presentation Set. Winsor has always viewed it as the ‘ultimate’. Struck as a Presentation Set at the Royal Mint London - in its original case of issue - the set is comprised of four silver coins, the 1910 Florin, 1910 Shilling, 1910 Sixpence and 1910 Threepence minted to glorious SPECIMEN quality. Furthermore, it is unique in private hands. Only one other set is known, held in the Museum of Victoria Archives. Only a person of influence within the minting hierarchy could ever have access to such a striking and Winsor's research revealed that it must have come from Sir Robert Johnson, Deputy Mint Master of the Royal Mint London.

It's not every day a collector will have the opportunity of buying a Holey Dollar. Particularly one that is as famous as this coin. It was the piece Philip Spalding selected to grace the front cover of his literary masterpiece, 'The World of the Holey Dollar'. That exposure has given this Holey Dollar a powerful edge and has guaranteed its place in history as one of the most recognised of its specie. A signed "First Edition" copy of Spalding's book - numbered '15' - and inscribed by the author will be presented with the sale of this coin. Technical shots are provided.

A 1916 Presentation Set in an original case of issue always commands buyer attention. A Presentation Set of coins records an important moment or event in a nation's history and, for Australia, the year 1916 is indeed a significant one. Now add the final touch of the four words - original case of issue. The case is a stamp of authority and approval indicating that the coins are presented today as they were originally intended more than a century ago. This 1916 Presentation Set is a classic piece of Australiana that is as distinctive as it is rare. Especially created at the Melbourne Mint in 1916 to commemorate the mint’s inaugural striking of Australia’s Commonwealth coins, the set is comprised of the florin, shilling, sixpence and threepence struck to superb specimen quality. Only seven cased presentation sets have been observed at auction over the last half-century.

The Spanish Silver Dollar was fabled as pirate plunder. It was the famous ‘piece of eight’ of the Spanish empire and it was used – and abused – by British colonies right across the globe to create their very own local currency. Cut into quarters, half or three-quarter segments and stamped with the insignia of a colony, it served as small change for that dependency. Holed It became the famous Holey Dollar. This collection is comprised of five coins, all of which were created from the Spanish Silver Dollar. Extremely rare and highly historical, this collection of five coins is available now.

Let there be no doubt, one of the prime reasons for the popularity of the 1930 Penny is its financial reliability. It is a solid coin. And in times such as we are experiencing, this genuinely counts. In fact, we would go one step further and say that over the long term it has probably been one of our most consistent and trustworthy numismatic performers. This 1930 Penny is graded Good Fine with nice edges and a strong ‘1930’ date. Take up a magnifying glass and you will see that the obverse has one side of the central diamond and six pearls. And while the quality should be enough to gain buyer attention, it is the price that makes this 1930 Penny irresistible buying. We are offering it at $24,500. Technical shots are shown below.

This Proof Canberra Florin set a new price record when it sold at auction in March 2007. Noted by the Auction House as having a quality of Gem FDC. and detailed as 'one of the finest', this stunning proof sold for nearly 50 per cent over its pre-auction estimate, bidders driven by its exceptional quality. The assessment of Gem FDC and its ranking as 'one of the finest' stands true to this very day. The photographs have done justice to this coin. It is simply magnificent.

A Nearly Extremely Fine 1813 Dump is a supreme-quality piece and rests in the top 5 per cent of surviving examples. A coin of this calibre is genuinely hard to find and is a chance opportunity. Now let’s factor in the provenance of Ray Jewell for a Nearly Extremely Fine Dump that has the name Ray Jewell attached to it, is a once-in-a-decade opportunity. Jewell was a foremost dealer and collector and a founding father of Australia’s rare coin industry. He was as learned as he was well-respected, and this Dump was part of his prized collection. It is a coin that has all the attributes that a collector could ask for in an 1813 Dump including a well-executed central design, traces of the original Spanish Dollar design details, strong denticles and the presence of the ‘H’ for Henshall on the reverse.

A Trans-Tasman connection was alive and kicking when New Zealander, Henry George Williams, financed the striking of a small number of 1935 Proof Pennies and 1935 Proof Halfpennies at the Melbourne Mint. In so doing, Williams unwittingly created an Australian 'numismatic star'. The term 'numismatic star' falls well short in describing these particular 1935 Proofs. The coins are perfectly matched, with glass-like surfaces and original copper brilliance, and are in every respect NUMISMATIC SUPER-STARS. We would be lucky to sight such quality '35 proofs on the market once every five years.

On 1 July 2020, Coinworks will have been trading twenty years. We are kick starting the celebrations and for one week only, we are offering this collection of twelve stunning copper proofs at a celebratory price of $15,000 (normal R.R.P. $21,000).

This Proof Sovereign was struck at the Melbourne Mint in 1893. It is exceedingly rare. Only one other example has surfaced over the last century. It also is exceedingly important. In 1893, Australia changed the obverse portrait of the nation's sovereigns to depict Queen Victoria in her twilight years. Expertly crafted from 22 carat gold, the coin exudes luxury and wealth a dichotomy to the economic and social horrors of the year in which it was struck. And the city in which it was struck. For Australia in 1893 was experiencing a depression that lasted longer than anywhere else in the world and Melbourne was its epicentre. This Proof 1893 Sovereign is an enduring symbol of our past.

Numismatic history and numismatic catalogues were re-written in 1999, when this Proof 1932 Penny appeared at auction. Up until then no one knew that a Proof Penny from 1932 even existed. As you would expect, the market reacted and frenetic bidding saw the coin sell for nearly seventy per cent above its pre-auction estimate. This is a stunning coin with impeccable mirror fields, full underlying copper brilliance on both obverse and reverse. The opaline colours of the obverse in particular are simply glorious.

This coin is for the buyer that is seeking a supreme quality 1930 Penny. On the obverse, the coin has a full central diamond and traces of the seventh and eighth pearl. The reverse is equally impressive with well-defined inner beading, crisp upper and lower scrolls and a strong '1930' date. On both obverse and reverse, the toning is even and handsome. The fields show minimal signs of circulation and are smooth and glossy. We would place this coin in the top 5 per cent of surviving examples. Now, it is a fact that the most frequently sighted 1930 Penny is a well circulated Fine. This coin, at Good Very Fine, is at least five grades higher. A 1930 Penny at this quality level would be offered on the market, perhaps once every few years. And this great coin rarity is available now. Already have a 1930 Penny? Then consider trading it back as part-payment on this stunning coin.

The 1930 Penny that is in this collection is a star in its own right. The coin is very impressive and is graded About Very Fine with at least two sides of the central diamond showing and six plump pearls. The edges are complete. And the legend and the date ‘1930’ are all prominent. Moreover, the toning is a consistent and handsome chestnut brown. Take up a magnifying glass and you notice that the fields on both obverse and reverse show minimal signs of circulation. And while the quality of this 1930 Penny should be enough to gain buyer attention, its inclusion in a complete collection of Australian pennies (1911 to 1964) makes this offer irresistible buying. Technical shots are provided below.

Original & Uncirculated. Two words that are music to a banknote collector's ears. ORIGINAL ... indicating that the note has been brilliantly preserved, crisp and vivid in colour. UNCIRCULATED ... indicating that it has never been used. These two words are particularly powerful when you consider that this banknote was issued more than eighty years ago - in 1939 - at the commencement of World War II. Over and above its superb original state, this Sheehan McFarlane Five Pounds is historically significant as the first Five Pounds of the George VI era. Furthermore, it is extremely rare for the note has the lowest recorded print run of the entire George VI era. At $8,500 it is affordable and a sensible piece to tuck away for the future either for yourself, for your children or your grandchildren.

If Australian collectors needed a reminder about the potency of the Perth Mint's gold coin rarities, they certainly got it at the recent Zurich auction. A Perth Mint Proof 1901 Sovereign fetched a dazzling record price, nearly double that of a comparable Melbourne Mint proof. The coin offered here, the 1918 Half Sovereign, is yet another of the Perth Mint's great coin rarities that commands respect and attracts solid interest. Particularly in the quality offered here. It is an important coin on many fronts. Australia struck its last half sovereign in 1918, this coin marking the end of an era. Enhancing its popularity further, it is extremely rare. Respected numismatic author, Greg McDonald, contends that only 200 to 300 pieces are available to collectors. In summary. This 1918 Half Sovereign is important. Premium quality at Uncirculated. A world-class rarity. A product of the Perth Mint. And available at $15,000. Excellent buying! The technical shots shown below re-affirm the quality of this stunning coin.

The collector that owns this Adelaide Pound, also owned the Holey Dollar that we sold this month. Sold in a flash, we might add. We described the Holey Dollar as ‘the coin that had it all’. And we would describe this Adelaide Pound using the exact same phrase. This coin has everything that a collector would want in an Adelaide Pound, including the price. Fabulous eye appeal, lustrous fields, minimal effects from circulation and a strong ‘Government Assay Office’ legend. And importantly, edge denticles that are intact all the way round. The latter two traits - the legend and the denticles - are rarely strong and complete in even the very best of examples. The 1852 Adelaide Pound is the nation's first gold coin. Acquire this example and you will be keen to show it off to your family and friends.

There are two things we know about high quality 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereigns. NUMBER ONE. They are extremely rare. You can count on the fingers of one hand the number of 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereigns we have sold at this quality level. NUMBER TWO. They are exceedingly important. The '55 Sovereign is the nation's very first sovereign and will always have pride of place in any collection. So, if quality 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereigns are difficult to find today, then they are going to be even more difficult to find as the years roll on. Which is why we believe that high quality 1855 Sydney Mint Sovereigns are great coins to tuck away for the future.

Prices of Australian pre-decimal proofs rocketed between 2001 and 2002 when a collection of elite Proof Melbourne coppers came up at auction. This Proof 1928 Halfpenny was a part of the collection. The coins had never been sighted before, the vendor indicating that he had bought them from renowned collector Roy Farman in the 1950s. Farman, in turn, had held them from the day they were struck. We attended the auction and the competition for acquisition was as strong as we have ever seen. A case in point, this Proof 1928 Halfpenny, sold for $13,400 on a pre-auction estimate of $7500 and it is noted that the auction estimate reflected price guides at the time. And the reason for the heady prices?

How would today's collectors react if Governor Lachlan Macquarie had set aside the first forty Holey Dollars. And the first forty Dumps. And produced them with an identifying mark that made them undeniably connected to the very first production run of Australia's very first coins. Over the moon I would have thought. Unwittingly that is exactly what die sinker and engraver Joshua Payne did when he set up the dies and commenced production of the nation's first gold coin at the Government Assay Office, Adelaide. The reverse die, with its simple, elegant beaded inner circle cracked, the mishap discovered only after forty-plus coins were produced. And then, when he swapped over the reverse die, he replaced it with one that had a completely different design. Joshua Payne's actions unknowingly created a rarity of the highest order, the Adelaide Pound Type I, struck during the very first production run of the nation's first gold coin. Defined by a reverse with the beaded inner circle and the tell-tale crack in the DWT area of the legend, perhaps forty examples are known. Technical shots are shown in READ MORE.