1995 $1 Coin - Centenary of Banjo Paterson's "Waltzing Matilda"

1995 $1 Centenary of Waltzing Matilda Commemorative Coin

Celebrate a century of Australia’s unofficial anthem with this 1995 commemorative $1 coin. Released by the Royal Australian Mint, this coin marks the 100th anniversary of "Waltzing Matilda," written by Banjo Paterson in 1895. The song has become a quintessential part of the Australian identity, capturing the rugged, rebellious spirit of the bush.

The design features a whimsical depiction of the "Jolly Swagman," complete with his tucker bag, making it one of the most beloved designs in the Australian decimal series.

Key Features and Specifications

• Year of Issue: 1995
• Theme: 100th Anniversary of Waltzing Matilda (1895–1995)
• Reverse Design: Features a stylised swagman by Wojciech Pietranik, inspired by the lyrics of the iconic song.
• Obverse Design: Features the third definitive portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Raphael Maklouf.
• Available Mintmarks & Mintages:
• 'C' Mintmark (Canberra): 156,453 (Gallery Press)
• 'S' Mintmark (Sydney Royal Easter Show): 82,810
• 'B' Mintmark (Brisbane Royal Show): 74,353
• 'M' Mintmark (Melbourne Royal Show): 74,255
• Composition: Aluminium Bronze
• Legal Tender: Official Australian $1 coin.

Historical Significance

"Waltzing Matilda" was first performed in public at the North Gregory Hotel in Winton, Queensland, on April 6, 1895. This coin serves as a tribute to Banjo Paterson's enduring poetry and the song's status as a symbol of Australian folklore. As a "Non-Circulating Legal Tender" (NCLT) issue, it was produced specifically for collectors and was not released into general circulation.

Condition and Presentation

Each coin is supplied in its original Royal Australian Mint presentation card, which includes the lyrics to the song and its historical background.

Condition Note:

• Packaging: The original cards remain in good, clean condition, though some may exhibit minor wear or edge softening consistent with their 30-year age.
• Coin Character: As typical for aluminium-bronze coins from the mid-1990s, some pieces may display attractive natural toning, adding a unique vintage character.
• Preservation: To ensure the highest level of long-term protection, coins will be transferred to archival-quality Mylar coin flips.