Summary

Silver medal from the Perth Mint commemorating the centenary of the foundation of the Swan River Colony in Western Australia in 1829. It was designed by George Kruger Gray, a designer, painter and medallist who worked for the Royal Mint in London. His designs appeared on coins in many countries of the British Empire. In 1827 Captain James Stirling and botanist Charles Fraser explored the Swan River region. Their glowing reports influenced the British Government's decision to found a colony. Stirling returned in 1829 as Lieutenant-Governor of the new Colony, accompanied by free settlers. In 1832 Stirling appointed a Legislative Council of four government officials to assist him. Western Australia was not constituted as a separate entity until 1890
Mint: Perth.
The number of medals struck by the Royal Mint Perth Branch were; gold 3, silver 889, and 84,700 bronze. The silver and bronze medals could be purchased at any bank in the state for 1/6 and 1/ respectively. Special cases were also available for 3/.

Obverse Description

Crowned bust of George V left; around, GEORGIVS V REX ET IND: IMP: Artist's initials on truncation, BM

Reverse Description

Swan advancing left with wings spread; around, CENTENARY . OF . WESTERN . AUSTRALIA . 1929 Artist's initials in field, KG

Edge Description

Plain

Significance

In 1827, Captain James Stirling and botanist Charles Fraser explored the Swan River region. Their glowing reports influenced the British Government's decision to found a colony. Stirling returned in 1829 as Lieutenant-Governor of the new Colony, accompanied by free settlers. In 1832 Stirling appointed a Legislative Council of four government officials to assist him. Western Australia was not constituted as a separate entity until 1890. -Western Australian Department of Premier and Cabinet 'Celebrate WA' web site http://www.celebratewa.com.au. -D. Tout-Smith 15/1/2004.

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