2019 Kookaburra Patterns 1919 - 1921 Three Square 1/4oz Silver Proof Coin Set

One of Australia's most unusual and distinctive coin designs celebrates its 100th Anniversary in 2019, the design never circulated and yet it is still treasured in numismatic circles today. 

The 2019 fine Silver Proof Set remembers the Kookaburra coins, valued for their distinctive designs and rarity.

In 1919, Australia's Government, championed by the Treasurer, proposed to exchange Australia's old cumbersome bronze pennies and halfpennies with new coins that would be lighter and more uniquely Australian in design.

Between 1919 and 1921, thirteen designs were trialled by the Royal Mint, all based on a square shape and bearing the image of a perched laughing Kookaburra on their reverse.

New alloys were used during the trial pieces, using metals such as nickel, copper and tin. Approximately 200 of the Kookaburra trial pieces were produced but the coin never reached circulation.

Some Australians were uncomfortable with the small size of the coins, vending machines had been manufactured to round coins only and there was a general resistance to the change. 

The alloys were also expensive, and so when the Treasurer suddenly resigned in 1921, the trials finished.

Thanks to their rarity and unique design, the remaining Kookaburra trial pieces are highly collectable and valued by numismatists.

Limited mintage of this prestigious set being released is only 3000 

Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity