The Royal Australian Mint has introduced a unique collection of gold 50-cent coins to honor the renowned Australian poet, Dorothea Mackellar. Unlike the traditional silver coins, these new limited edition coins are crafted in gold, adding a touch of elegance to the commemorative series. This release comprises three distinct coins, each featuring a different poem by Mackellar, notably including her iconic work, “My Country.”

Dorothea Mackellar, celebrated for her evocative poetry capturing the essence of the Australian landscape, has inspired the creation of these exquisite coins. The first coin in the series, influenced by the poem “Dawn,” portrays a picturesque scene of sunrise illuminating the surroundings with intricate details like trees, mountains, and a shimmering spider web. The second coin, inspired by Mackellar’s renowned piece “My Country,” vividly depicts the sun-soaked terrain and sweeping plains that characterize the Australian outback. Lastly, the third coin, themed around “The Colours of Light,” showcases a vibrant display of a peacock amidst radiant flora, symbolizing the beauty of nature.

While these coins hold significant cultural and historical value, they are also a collector’s delight. Coinxchange co-founder, Doug McRostie, suggests that the limited mintage of 20,000 for each coin, with a purchase limit of 10 per person, may not attract high demand from collectors. Priced at $20 per coin, they offer an affordable opportunity for enthusiasts to own a piece of Australian literary heritage.

The Royal Australian Mint’s executive manager of sales, marketing, and innovation, Jennifer Sullivan, emphasized the enduring appeal of Mackellar’s poetry across generations. She noted that Mackellar’s verses encapsulate the vastness, resilience, and natural splendor of the Australian landscape, making these coins a tribute to her lasting influence and a connection to her legacy.

This release is not the Mint’s first venture into celebrating Australian literary icons through coinage. In 2020, they commemorated Banjo Paterson’s poetry with a series of gold 50-cent coins featuring works like “Waltzing Matilda” and “The Man From Snowy River.” The Mint’s dedication to honoring Australia’s literary heritage through numismatic artistry underscores the cultural significance of these creations.

For those eager to acquire these unique coins, they are now available for purchase at the Dorothea Mackellar Centre in Gunnedah. Priced at $20 individually or $50 for the complete set, collectors can secure these prized possessions through various channels, including the Royal Australian Mint’s online shop, the Mint Shop in Canberra, the Mint Contact Centre, or authorized distributors.

As the latest addition to the Mint’s prestigious collection, these gold 50-cent coins not only celebrate the poetic legacy of Dorothea Mackellar but also offer a tangible link to Australia’s rich literary heritage. With their limited availability and artistic craftsmanship, these coins are set to become coveted pieces among numismatists and poetry enthusiasts alike, encapsulating the essence of Australian poetry in a tangible form.