| Obverse description |
Sixth crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the George IV State Diadem and the Victorian Coronation Necklace |
| Obverse script |
Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 2020 1 DOLLAR JC |
| Reverse description |
Within an inner ring of Orange, White, Red and Blue Hudson Fysh & Paul McGuinness. Outside the inner ring 3 small aircraft flying around the ring. To the lower right in a small circle the original shed where Queensland and Northern Territory Ariel Services began. The names of the two men at the top of the ring and the word QANTAS below. |
| Reverse script |
Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
SIR HUDSON FYSH & PAUL MCGUINNESS 1920 - 2020 QANTAS LTD QANTAS SMS |
| Edge |
7 shorter smooth segments between 7 reeded segments (11 grooves |
| Mint |
|
| Mintage |
2020 - BU in Coincard - 30 027
|
| Numisquare ID |
1006048580 |
Historical Context: Issued in 2020, this Australian One Dollar coin features the sixth and final effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark. This period marked the latter years of her extraordinary reign, reflecting a stable yet evolving Commonwealth. The coin's reverse commemorates QANTAS (Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services), one of the world's oldest and most iconic airlines, and its pioneering founders, Hudson Fysh and Paul McGinness. This issue celebrates their vision and the enduring legacy of Australian aviation, a cornerstone of national identity.
Artistry: The obverse displays Jody Clark's elegant sixth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, known for its contemporary realism and dignified presentation. The reverse, designed by the Royal Australian Mint, masterfully integrates the QANTAS theme, likely depicting early aviation motifs, an aircraft from the airline's formative years, or representations of Fysh and McGinness. A notable artistic feature is the application of pad printing, a modern technique allowing for selective colorization, which enhances visual impact and brings a vibrant, contemporary aesthetic to the commemorative elements.
Technical/Grading: Struck in aluminium bronze (92% copper, 6% aluminium, 2% nickel), this 25 mm, 9-gram coin exhibits excellent strike characteristics typical of modern minting. Key high points for strike evaluation on the obverse include the Queen's hair and crown details. On the reverse, sharpness of aircraft details and any facial features are critical. For grading, particular attention must be paid to the integrity and preservation of the pad-printed areas, as these colored elements are susceptible to wear or scratching, significantly impacting the coin's aesthetic and numismatic value.