Summary

Australia
Sixpence 1953
Proof or specimen strike
Mint: Melbourne

This was the first issue of this denomination in the name of Elizabeth II. Reference to her role as Defender of the Faith (F:D: or FIDEI DEF:) in the obverse legend was omitted but after extensive complaint in Australia it was returned on the standard coinage from 1955 (it was first used on the commemorative florin for the Royal visit in 1954). Specimens (sometimes called proofs) were only made for official purposes this year, they were not available directly to collectors.

Physical Description

A silver coin (19 mm diameter with milled edge) featuring a laureate head of Elizabeth II facing right; around, + ELIZABETH . II . DEI . GRATIA . REGINA ; below bust in small lettering the artist's initials H.P.. The reverse features the Ensigns Armorial of the Commonwealth of Australia, as authorised by Royal Warrent 7th May 1908 - composed of a simple shield enclosing a cross of Saint George on which are five six-pointed stars, around the outside of which are six small escutcheons, i.e., small shields. The shield is supported by a kangaroo and an emu standing on a grassy mound. Above the shield a crest, the seven-pointed star of Federation on a wreath. Below on a ribbon the motto ADVANCE AUSTRALIA is inscribed. Around above, SIXPENCE and below, between arrow heads, the date, 1953.

Obverse Description

Laureate head of Elizabeth II facing right; around, + ELIZABETH . II . DEI . GRATIA . REGINA

Reverse Description

Ensigns Armorial of the Commonwealth of Australia, as authorised by Royal Warrent 7th May 1908 - composed of a simple shield enclosing a cross of Saint George on which are five six-pointed stars, around the outside of which are six small escutcheons, i.e., small shields. The shield is supported by a kangaroo and an emu standing on a grassy mound. Above the shield a crest, the seven-pointed star of Federation on a wreath. Below on a ribbon the motto ADVANCE AUSTRALIA is inscribed. Around above, SIXPENCE and below, between arrow heads, the date, 1953.

Edge Description

Milled

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