50 Cents - Elizabeth II 4th Portrait - XVIII Commonwealth Games Lawn Bowls

Historical Context: This 2006 Australian 50 Cents coin was issued during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, featuring her Fourth Portrait. It commemorates the XVIII Commonwealth Games held in Melbourne, Australia, from March 15 to 26, 2006. This specific issue highlights Lawn Bowls, one of the core sports, reflecting Australia's strong ties to the Commonwealth and its role as host nation for this significant international sporting event. The coin serves as a tangible memento of a major national occasion.

Artistry: The obverse features the Fourth Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, depicting a mature monarch facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. This portrait is a hallmark of modern British and Commonwealth coinage. The reverse design, likely by a Royal Australian Mint artist, dynamically portrays a lawn bowls player in mid-action, capturing the sport's essence. The Commonwealth Games logo and "MELBOURNE 2006" are prominently integrated, aligning with a contemporary, realistic commemorative style.

Technical/Grading: For collectors, key high-points on the obverse include the intricate details of the Queen's tiara and her hair. On the reverse, attention should be paid to the sharpness of the player's facial features, the texture of their clothing, and the precise rendering of the bowls and the lawn surface. As a copper-nickel circulating commemorative, these coins generally exhibit a strong strike, but bag marks are common. A full, sharp strike without significant contact marks is desirable for higher grades.