To commemorate the 200th anniversary of Australia’s first coinage, the Holey Dollar and Dump, The Perth Mint has released a stunning two-coin commemorative set struck from 99.9% pure silver.
Originally produced in 1813 in New South Wales, the Holey Dollar and its miniature partner the colonial Dump were issued as Australia’s first official coins to combat the shortage of currency in the new settlement.
At the time, Governor Lachlan Macquarie imported 40,000 Spanish dollars called ‘pieces of eight’, and had William Hensell, a convicted forger, cut the centre out of each coin.
The outer ring became known as a ‘holey dollar’ and the centre was called a ‘dump’. Governor Macquarie set their respective values at five shillings and 15 pence apiece.
The coins provided a vital short-term solution to the colony’s currency crisis and remained in official circulation until 1829 when they were demonetised.
“This unique innovation was the origin of Australia’s economic system, and is a foundational milestone in our country’s numismatic history,” said Ron Currie, Perth Mint Sales and Marketing Director.
“Today, experts estimate that only 300 Holey Dollars and just over 1,000 Dumps are still in existence, so our anniversary set is sure to create great interest among collectors worldwide,” Mr Currie continued.
Staying true to the issues of the early 19th century, the reverse of the commemorative Holey Dollar replicates the original dollar, including the outer inscription ‘Dei Gratia 1788 Carolus III’, with the inner rim inscription reading ‘New South Wales 1813’.
The reverse of memorial Dump also replicates the initial design, depicting a crown and the inscription ‘NSW 1813’.
Issued as Australian legal tender, the obverse of both coins depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2013 year-date and the monetary denomination.
Presented in a classic display box within an illustrated shipper, and accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity, the historic collectable is priced at an affordable $119.
Only 4,000 sets will be released by The Perth Mint for sale worldwide. Orders can be placed by telephoning toll free 1800 098 817 (Australia), +61 8 9421 7218 (International), or by visiting www.perthmint.com.au
Learn about more of The Perth Mint’s popular collector coins on http://blog.perthmint.com.au/ or follow The Perth Mint on Twitter @perthmint
About the Perth Mint
Situated in Perth, Australia, Gold Corporation is one of the world’s leading precious metal refining, minting and value adding enterprises, providing high quality precious metal products and services to markets throughout the world. As operator of The Perth Mint, it is the issuer of Australia’s bullion coins and of an extensive range of high quality commemorative coins. It offers many options for the ownership of gold, silver and platinum, including storage options in its Depository. Still operating in its historic 113 year old premises, The Perth Mint is also a premier tourist destination in Western Australia and home to the largest coin in the world – the Australian Kangaroo One Tonne Gold Coin.
