The 1996 Masterpieces in Silver: Shaping A National Identity Proof Coin Set is a significant release from the Royal Australian Mint, celebrating the key figures and events that have shaped Australia's national identity. Part of the prestigious Masterpieces in Silver series, this set is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance.
Key Features:
- Composition: Each coin in the set is struck from sterling silver (92.5% pure).
- Individual Coin Weight: Each coin weighs 31.635 grams (1.015 troy ounces).
- Total Weight: The entire set weighs 158.175 grams (5.075 troy ounces) of sterling silver.
- Pure Silver Content: Each coin contains 29.248 grams (0.94 troy ounces) of pure silver, totaling 146.24 grams (4.7 troy ounces) of pure silver across the set.
Design:
- Obverse: Features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Raphael Maklouf, along with inscriptions denoting the coin's value and country of issue.
- Reverse: Each coin highlights key moments and figures in Australian history, such as:
- Ned Kelly: The infamous bushranger, symbolizing rebellion and the fight against injustice.
- Eureka Stockade: Representing the 1854 miners' uprising, a defining moment in Australian democracy.
- Sir Henry Parkes: Known as the "Father of Federation," who played a crucial role in Australia's path to becoming a unified nation.
Mintage: Limited mintage, making it a highly collectible set that is sought after by numismatists and history enthusiasts alike.
Condition: The set is sealed and unopened, ensuring the coins remain in mint condition, untouched and preserved since their original release.
Packaging: The coins are housed in their original, sealed packaging, including a high-quality display case and a numbered Certificate of Authenticity, verifying the set's authenticity and pristine condition.
Why Collect This Set?
The 1996 Masterpieces in Silver: Shaping A National Identity Proof Coin Set is an essential addition to any serious collection. Its focus on pivotal figures and events in Australian history, combined with its sealed and unopened condition, makes it particularly valuable. The set's limited mintage, along with its high silver content and exquisite design, ensures that it will be a treasured piece for years to come.