1 Dollar In the name of Elizabeth II, 6th Portrait - Australian Kangaroo - Bullion Coin

Historical Context: The 2023 Australian 1 Dollar 'Kangaroo' silver bullion coin, bearing the 6th effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark, holds significant historical weight. Dated the year after her passing, it represents one of the final issues to feature her portrait on Australian coinage, marking a poignant end to an era of seventy years of sovereign continuity. This coin bridges the late Elizabethan period with the nascent Carolean era, reflecting Australia's enduring constitutional monarchy and its role within the Commonwealth during a period of royal transition, preceding the eventual introduction of King Charles III's effigy.

Artistry: The obverse features Jody Clark's elegant 6th Portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, identifiable by the artist's initials 'JC' beneath the bust. This modern realist depiction, introduced in 2015, portrays the monarch facing right, adorned with the George IV State Diadem. The reverse, characteristic of the Australian Kangaroo series, showcases a dynamic, naturalistic rendition of the iconic marsupial, a hallmark of The Perth Mint's renowned wildlife artistry. While the specific reverse engraver is often uncredited for this series, the style emphasizes intricate detail and lifelike representation.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, collectors should scrutinize the highest points of the obverse portrait, particularly the intricate details of the diadem and the queen's hair, for any signs of wear or abrasions. On the reverse, attention should be paid to the kangaroo's musculature and fur texture, ensuring a full, sharp strike. The expansive fields on both sides are susceptible to 'milk spots' common to high-purity silver (.9999) bullion, and minor bag marks. A strong, unbroken cartwheel luster across the fields is paramount for high-grade specimens.