1 Dollar - Elizabeth II 6th Portrait - Lest We Forget - Kokoda Trail 80 Years

Historical Context: Issued by Australia in 2022, this 1 Dollar coin commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Kokoda Trail campaign, a pivotal and arduous series of battles fought by Australian forces against the Japanese in Papua New Guinea during World War II (July-November 1942). The phrase "Lest We Forget" underscores the enduring national remembrance of this significant military sacrifice. The obverse features the 6th and final effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark, placing the coin within the very late period of her historic reign, a year that also marked her Platinum Jubilee and eventual passing, adding a layer of historical poignancy to its issue.

Artistry: The obverse bears the acclaimed 6th portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark, identifiable by the "JC" initials. This effigy, introduced in 2019, portrays the monarch facing right, adorned with the George IV State Diadem. The reverse design, characteristic of the Royal Australian Mint's commemorative issues, typically features detailed, narrative-driven artistry. While the specific reverse engraver is not provided, the stylistic school aligns with modern commemorative coinage, emphasizing realism and emotional resonance to honour the Kokoda Trail's historical significance, often incorporating elements of the jungle terrain and soldiers.

Technical/Grading: Struck in aluminium bronze, this 30.7 mm, 13.5 gram coin presents specific high-points for grading. On the obverse, examine the sharpness of the Queen's hair details, the intricate elements of the diadem, and the folds of her drapery. For the reverse, critical areas include the fine details of any depicted soldiers' uniforms and faces, the texture of the jungle foliage, and the crispness of the "Lest We Forget" inscription and "80 Years" numeral. Absence of contact marks on the relatively open fields, particularly for higher mint state grades, is also paramount, as aluminium bronze can be susceptible to bag marks and toning.