Description

This vintage 1960 Australian Halfpenny features the iconic leaping kangaroo reverse, designed by George Kruger Gray, and the “First Portrait” of Queen Elizabeth II by Mary Gillick on the obverse. A bronze coin (25.5 mm diameter with plain edge) Minted at the Perth Mint, this coin was withdrawn from circulation in 1966 but remains legal tender. A classic piece of Australia’s pre-decimal currency, perfect for collectors of Commonwealth or historical coins.
The obverse of the coin shows the laureate young bust of Queen Elizabeth II facing right – her effigy known as the “First Portrait”. The laurel wreath in the Queen’s hair is tied with a ribbon with two ends flowing behind. The designer’s initials, M.G. (for Mary Gillick) appear incuse on the base of the shoulder truncation, and can be seen when the coin is viewed at an angle. The monarch’s legend runs continuously all around the bust: + ELIZABETH · II · DEI · GRATIA · REGINA · F : D :. Translated from Latin: Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith.