1966 Australian Coin Wallet by BP - Decimal Coins

Obverse: Elizabeth II to right, legend around

Reverse: Circulating coin designs

Mintage: Unknown

An attractive set of Australia's first decimal coins dating to the changover to decimal currency.

The introduction of decimal currency in 1966 was a significant event in Australia's transition to a truly independent nation. The adoption of decimal currency meant that not only was the Imperial system of pounds, shillings and pence left behind, but all of the reverse designs featured timeless depictions of Australia's unique native flora and fauna.

All the 1966 decimal coin sets are unique in several ways - they are the only one to feature a round (and silver!) 50¢ piece, and comes in a number of different folders. As a result, many 1966 sets have spotted or tarnished coins - sets that include each coin still in pristine condition command a significant premium.

Nothing significant has yet been published on the background to these sets, issued by British Petroleum (BP), at the time of the switch to decimal currency in 1966. Interest in them has risen significantly in recent years - they make an excellent supplement to the sets released officially by the RAM at the time, and do a lot to tell the story of the widespread excitement in the Australian community regarding the switch, and specifically the desire to keep a tangible memento of the occasion.

The packaging of this set is in good condition, there are a couple of minor marks on the front cover, the copper coins are standard for the period.

SKU: 22623