Pattern - 1 Florin - Edward VIII Reverse Trial

Edward VIII abdicated in December 1936, before any of the prepared Australian coinage bearing his effigy could enter circulation. Dies had already been cut for the full denominations, and this florin reverse trial survives as evidence of how far preparations had advanced. The obverse was never paired for circulation — the abdication made it unnecessary.

Australia had been awaiting a new obverse portrait following George V's death in January 1936. The eleven-month interregnum created a production vacuum that the mints filled with trial and pattern work.