What is on the 20 Cent Coin?
Introduction
Coins have played an essential role in the history of humanity, from being used as a medium of exchange to representing a nation’s culture and heritage. In Australia, coins are no different, and the 20 cent coin is one of the most popular coins in circulation. In this article, we will explore the history, design, value, and collectibility of the 20 cent coin.
History of 20 Cent Coin
The history of Australian currency dates back to the early 1800s when various currencies were used to trade goods and services. However, it wasn’t until 1910 that the Australian government introduced its official currency, the Australian pound. The pound was later replaced by the Australian dollar in 1966, and with the new currency came a new set of coins, including the 20 cent coin.
The 20 cent coin was introduced in 1966 and was made of cupronickel, a metal alloy of copper and nickel. The coin’s diameter is 28.52mm, and it weighs 11.31 grams. The front of the coin features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, while the back features a unique design that represents Australia’s heritage and culture.
In 1985, the Royal Australian Mint introduced a new design for the 20 cent coin, featuring the Australian platypus. The platypus is a unique animal that is only found in Australia, and its inclusion on the coin was significant in representing the nation’s flora and fauna. The new design was well-received, and it has remained on the coin ever since.
Design of 20 Cent Coin
The front of the 20 cent coin features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin. The portrait has been used on Australian coins since 1966, and it has undergone several modifications over the years. The current portrait of Queen Elizabeth II was introduced in 2019, and it was designed by Jody Clark.
The back of the coin features the Australian platypus, which is a unique animal that is only found in Australia. The platypus is a semi-aquatic mammal that has webbed feet, a bill like a duck, and a beaver-like tail. The platypus is significant in Australian culture, and it is often used to represent the nation’s flora and fauna.
The coin’s design also includes the words “AUSTRALIA” and “TWENTY CENTS.” The denomination is located at the bottom of the coin, while the country’s name is located at the top. The design is simple yet elegant, and it represents Australia’s cultural and natural heritage.
Value of 20 Cent Coin
The 20 cent coin has a monetary value of 20 cents, and it is widely used in Australia for daily transactions. The coin’s value has remained relatively stable over the years, and it has not undergone any significant changes in value. However, the purchasing power of the coin has decreased over time due to inflation.
The 20 cent coin’s significance in today’s economy lies in its usefulness as a medium of exchange. It is widely accepted in businesses and vending machines across the country, and it is an essential part of Australia’s cash economy. The coin is also used as a collector’s item, with some rare versions of the coin fetching high prices at auctions.
In conclusion, the 20 cent coin is an essential part of Australia’s currency system. Its design represents the nation’s heritage and culture, while its value and usefulness make it an essential medium of exchange in the country’s economy.
Collectibility of 20 Cent Coin
Coin collecting, also known as numismatics, is a popular hobby worldwide. Many collectors are drawn to the historical and cultural significance of coins, and the 20 cent coin is no exception. While most 20 cent coins in circulation are worth their face value, some rare coins can fetch a high price in the collector’s market.
One of the rarest 20 cent coins is the 1966 “Wavy Baseline” coin. This coin features a wavy line at the bottom of the Queen’s portrait, which was a printing error that occurred during the minting process. The coin is highly sought after by collectors, and a well-preserved version can fetch up to $7,000.
Another rare 20 cent coin is the 1981 “Three and a Half Claws” coin. This coin features a misprint of the Australian coat of arms on the back, where the kangaroo’s paw has only three and a half claws instead of the usual four. The coin is scarce, with only a few hundred in circulation, and a well-preserved version can fetch up to $1,500.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 20 cent coin is an essential part of Australia’s currency history, representing the nation’s culture and heritage. The coin’s design, featuring the iconic platypus and Queen Elizabeth II, is instantly recognizable, and it continues to be in circulation today. While most 20 cent coins are worth their face value, some rare coins can fetch a high price in the collector’s market, making them a valuable investment. Overall, the 20 cent coin is a symbol of Australia’s rich history and economy, and it will continue to be an important part of the nation’s culture for years to come.
