The 1988 Masterpieces in Silver: Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Set is a prestigious release from the Royal Australian Mint, created to mark the 200th anniversary of the first European settlement in Australia. This set is part of the Masterpieces in Silver series, which is renowned for its high-quality proof coins and historical significance.
Key Features:
- Composition: Each of the four coins in this set is struck from sterling silver (92.5% pure).
- Individual Coin Weights:
- $5 Coin: Weighs 36.31 grams.
- $2 Coin: Weighs 20 grams.
- $1 Coin: Weighs 20 grams.
- 50 Cent Coin: Weighs 18 grams.
- Total Weight: The entire set weighs 94.31 grams of sterling silver.
- Pure Silver Content: The set contains approximately 2.1921 troy ounces of pure silver.
Design:
- Obverse: Each coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Raphael Maklouf.
- Reverse: Each coin commemorates a different aspect of Australia’s bicentenary, including the $5 coin that uniquely celebrates the opening of the new Parliament House in Canberra.
Mintage: Limited to 50,000 sets, making it a valuable collectible.
Packaging: The coins are presented in an elegant display case, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity, verifying the set’s limited mintage and high-quality standards.
Why Collect This Set?
The 1988 Masterpieces in Silver: Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Set is an essential collection for those interested in Australian history and numismatics. The set’s focus on Australia’s bicentenary, combined with its limited mintage, makes it a prized possession for collectors. Each coin in the set not only represents a piece of Australia’s history but also serves as a work of art, crafted with precision and care.