Summary

Proof silver coin issued by Perth Mint to celebrate the Australian centenary of flight in 2010. Obverse designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. Coin Numbered 2516.
'The development of successful flying machines at the beginning of the 20th century offered significancnt benefits to Australia, an isolated nation with a vast interior. To promote interest in aviation, the Australian Aerial League invited Harry Houdini to fly his French-designed Voisin biplane during his 1910 tour of the country.
The famous escapologist's attempt took place at Diggers Rest, near Melbourne, on 18 March, 1910. Opening the throttle, Houdini took off from Plumpton's Field, staying aloft for about a minute before landing safely. A second flight saw him rise 100 feet, remaining airborne for almost five minutes. With a third successful attempt that day, Houdini is regarded as having completed the first sustained flight in Australia.'.

Physical Description

Silver proof coin printed with colour image on reverse. in acrylic capsule, in case, in cardboard box, with leaflet.

Obverse Description

Head of Elizabeth II. Around, 'ELIZABETH II . AUSTRALIA 2010 . 1 DOLLAR'. Beneath head, 'IRB'.

Reverse Description

In foreground, Houdini's bi-plane, in colour. In background, wording of poster advertising flight. Below, 'DIGGERS REST / MARCH 18th 1910 / AUSTRALIAN /CENTENARY / of Flight'.

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