225th Anniversary of Australian Proclamation Coins - Pillar Dollar 2025 1oz Silver Antiqued Coin

Struck from 1oz of 99.99% pure silver, this coin commemorates the 225thanniversary of Australia’s Proclamation coin - the Spanish Pillar Dollar. A historically significant piece and a valuable addition for collectors, reflecting the first currency minted in Australia.

Key features:

• Proof quality 99.99% pure silver
• 225th Anniversary of Australian Proclamation coins
• Antiqued Spanish Pillar Dollar design
• Unique 'Mo' mintmark 
• Australian legal tender

225thanniversary of Australian Proclamation coins 

Although it remains a topic of considerable numismatic debate, a Proclamation coin is usually defined by its inclusion in Governor Philip Gidley King’s famous edict of 19 November 1800, which attempted to solve the currency crisis afflicting the colony of New South Wales.

In response to the ongoing shortages, 40,000 Spanish reales were brought into the colony by Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1812. A decision was made to increase the number of available coins by cutting out the centre of each coin. The coins then underwent a counter stamping process, designating the outer ring as the 'holey dollar', and the centre as the 'dump'. This operation prevented the coins from being exported and led to the creation of the first currency minted in Australia.

Spanish Pillar Dollar tribute design

The coin’s reverse design pays homage to the Spanish Pillar Dollar, also known as a peso, or a ‘piece of eight’. Under the inscription ‘VTRAQUE’ (meaning 'both are one'), the coin portrays the Spanish Crown and two hemispheres representing the Old World and the New World.

These elements are surrounded by representations of the Pillars of Hercules, both draped in spiralling banners displaying the words ‘PLVS VLTRA’ (meaning 'more beyond'). It has been suggested that the s-shaped configuration of the banners around the columns explain the origin of the ‘$’ sign. Included in the design is a unique ‘Mo’ mintmark, indicating the coin's origin from Mexico City. This design element pays homage to the tradition of Spanish Empire coins bearing distinct mintmarks signifying their minting location. Also on the reverse is the 2025 year-date.

This coin has been individually ‘antiqued’ to give it a unique finish conveying the surface abrasions of an ancient artefact. As a result of this treatment, the appearance of each coin in the mintage may vary.

Presentation packaging

Accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity, the coin is housed in a presentation case and 225th anniversary illustrated shipper.