1998 50c Coin - Bass & Flinders - Uncirculated (Toned)

1998 50c "Bass & Flinders" — Specimen Strike Ex-PNC (Obverse Toned)

Single Uncirculated Specimen Strike 50c coin, salvaged directly from an official Australia Post / Royal Australian Mint Postal Numismatic Cover (PNC). Supplied in a brand-new 2x2 Mylar coin flip for protection.

Coin Specifications

• 1998 50c Commemorative Coin celebrating the bicentenary of the Discovery of Bass Strait (1798–1998) by George Bass and Matthew Flinders.
• Specimen Strike Finish: Produced with higher-pressure specimen dies for official PNC releases, featuring enhanced relief contrast compared to standard circulation strikes.
• Toning Assessment: Displays a distinctive, curved arc of blue and iridescent crescent toning across the lower obverse field.
• Reverse Design: Designed by Vladimir Gottwald, depicting portraits of George Bass and Matthew Flinders alongside a map outline of Tasmania and Bass Strait.
• Obverse Design: Features the 3rd portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Raphael Maklouf.
• Catalogue Reference: Numista N# 9557.
• Mintage Information: Limited mintage of 82,004 produced for the standard Australia Post PNC issue.
• Technical Specs: Cupronickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel), 15.55g weight, 31.51mm dodecagonal shape.

Please Note:

• Package Contents: This listing is for a single uncirculated Ex-PNC coin only, supplied in a protective Mylar flip.
• Condition Detail: As an Ex-PNC specimen, it has never been in circulation. Features a prominent blue crescent tone arc on the obverse as imaged, while the reverse remains clean with sharp detail.
• Image Note: Images reflect the exact coin available for purchase.

About this Coin

The 1998 "Bass & Flinders" 50c coin commemorates the historic 1798 voyage that proved Van Diemen's Land (Tasmania) was an island separated from mainland Australia. Struck to Specimen standard for official Australia Post PNC covers, this coin retains the superior detail and high-contrast surfaces typical of RAM collector packaging. With its distinct obverse crescent toning developed over decades inside its original paper insert, this piece offers a unique, eye-catching option for decimal completionists.