1 Dollar - Elizabeth II 4th Portrait - 60th Anniversary of the Korean War - Silver Proof

Historical Context: This 2013 Australian one-dollar silver proof coin commemorates the 60th Anniversary of the Korean War, a significant conflict (1950-1953) in which Australia, as a founding member of the United Nations, played a crucial role. Australian forces, including army, navy, and air force personnel, served with distinction, making it one of the nation's most costly post-World War II engagements. The coin's issuance during the reign of Elizabeth II, specifically featuring her Fourth Portrait, places it within a modern era of Australian numismatics that frequently honors military history and national remembrance, reflecting Australia's enduring ties to the Commonwealth and its own distinct identity.

Artistry: The obverse of this coin features the Fourth Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy, characterized by its mature and regal depiction of the monarch wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, is identifiable by the artist's initials 'IRB' typically found below the Queen's neck. The stylistic approach is one of dignified realism, a hallmark of modern Commonwealth coinage. The reverse design, while not explicitly detailed in the data, would undoubtedly feature a commemorative motif relating to the Korean War, likely executed by a Royal Australian Mint artist, embodying themes of remembrance, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the Australian Defence Force.

Technical/Grading: As a silver proof issue, this coin exhibits highly reflective fields and frosted, three-dimensional devices, characteristic of the highest minting quality. Key high-points for grading on the obverse include the intricate details of Queen Elizabeth II's tiara, the individual strands and curls of her hair, and the sharp definition of her facial features. On the reverse, assuming a typical military commemorative design, critical areas for preservation would be the fine details of any uniforms, insignia, weaponry, or memorial elements. Absence of hairlines or contact marks on the mirrored fields, along with full strike on all design elements, are paramount for top-tier grades.