Catalog
| Issuer | Australia |
|---|---|
| Year | 1999 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 20 Cents |
| Currency | Dollar (1966-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.999) |
| Weight | 2.99 g |
| Diameter | 17.5 mm |
| Thickness | 1.8 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#483 |
| Obverse description | 4th portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 1999 TWENTY CENTS IRB |
| Reverse description | Threepence 1942 reverse design of KM# 37 and three wheat heads with ribbon |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | AUSTRALIA 19 42 KG THREE PENCE |
| Edge | Plain Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1999 - Proof in Masterpieces in Silver Set - 15 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1010044400 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1999 Australian 20 Cents coin, part of the prestigious "Masterpieces in Silver" series, features the Fourth Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley. Issued during the late 20th century, it serves as a commemorative piece, replicating the reverse design of the 1942 Australian three pence. The original 1942 coin circulated during World War II, a pivotal period in Australia's history, marked by significant national effort and societal change. This modern silver issue celebrates and preserves that numismatic heritage.
Artistry: The obverse displays Ian Rank-Broadley's distinctive Fourth Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, a realistic and robust depiction that became standard for Australian coinage of the era. The reverse faithfully reproduces George Kruger Gray's iconic wheat ears design, originally featured on the 1942 three pence. This reverse, characteristic of the classical heraldic and symbolic school prevalent in British Commonwealth coinage, artfully represents Australia's agricultural bounty and national identity. The interplay between modern portraiture and a revered historical design creates a unique artistic narrative.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine silver, weighing 2.99 grams with a diameter of 17.5mm, this coin exhibits exceptional technical qualities typical of a proof strike from the "Masterpieces in Silver" series. High-points to assess for strike quality include the intricate details of Queen Elizabeth II's hair and crown on the obverse. On the reverse, the individual grains within the wheat ears and the central binding should be sharply defined and distinct, indicating a full and precise strike. These elements are critical for evaluating top-tier specimens.