Australian 50 Cent Coin (Elizabeth II, 2nd Portrait)
Country of Origin: Australia
Year of Issue: 1969-1984
Denomination: 50 Cents (0.50 AUD)
Composition: Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)
Brief Description
A large, twelve-sided (dodecagonal) coin featuring the right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin on the obverse and the Australian Coat of Arms on the reverse.
Historical Significance
This dodecagonal shape was introduced in 1969 to replace the circular 1966 silver 50-cent coin, which was often confused with the 20-cent coin and had a silver melt value exceeding its face value.
Estimated Value
$0.50 - $5.00 USD (Depends on year, condition, and mint luster; most circulated examples are worth face value)
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges to avoid fingerprint oils. Store in a cool, dry place within a PVC-free coin holder or album. Do not clean with chemicals or abrasives as this destroys numismatic value.
Created At: 2026-02-05T12:11:35.419346