1 Dollar - Elizabeth II 6th Portrait - Year of the Rat - Lunar Circle

Historical Context: This 2020 Australian One Dollar coin features the 6th and final effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark, introduced in 2019. Issued by the Royal Australian Mint, it is part of the popular Lunar Series, celebrating the Chinese zodiac. The "Year of the Rat" issue holds significant cultural appeal, reflecting Australia's diverse heritage and strong ties with Asian cultures. These annual releases are eagerly anticipated by collectors, marking a prominent contemporary numismatic tradition.

Artistry: The obverse proudly displays Jody Clark's elegant 6th portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a dignified depiction rendered with classical realism. The reverse design, typical of modern commemorative issues, showcases a stylized and intricate representation of a rat, central to the Lunar Circle theme. This style blends traditional animal portraiture with contemporary graphic elements, often incorporating auspicious symbolism and cultural motifs, characteristic of the Royal Australian Mint's annual series.

Technical/Grading: Struck in aluminium bronze (92% Copper, 6% Aluminium, 2% Nickel) at 9 grams and 25 millimeters, this coin is designed for robust circulation. Key high-points for assessing strike quality include the intricate details of Queen Elizabeth II's diadem and hair on the obverse. On the reverse, examine the rat's fur texture, whiskers, and fine background elements for full definition. These areas are most susceptible to weakness or wear in business strikes, making a strong, even strike indicative of a well-preserved example.