2003 $1 Coin - 50th Anniversary of the End of the Korean War

2003 $1 50th Anniversary of the End of the Korean War

This commemorative $1 coin was released by the Royal Australian Mint in 2003 to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1953 Armistice that ended the fighting in the Korean War. Australia was one of the first nations to commit troops to the United Nations force, and this coin serves as a poignant tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the Australian servicemen and women who served in the "Forgotten War."

The design features a symbolic representation of the conflict, honouring the veterans of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Key Features and Specifications

• Year of Issue: 2003
• Theme: 50th Anniversary of the End of the Korean War (1953–2003)
• Reverse Design: Features a moving tribute to Australian service personnel in Korea.
• Obverse Design: Features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
• Available Counterstamps & Mintages:
  • 'C' Counterstamp (Canberra): 93,572 (Gallery Press & General Sale)
  • 'B' Counterstamp (Brisbane): 34,949 (ANDA Show)
  • 'M' Counterstamp (Melbourne): 36,142 (Royal Melbourne Show)
  • 'S' Counterstamp (Sydney): 36,091 (ANDA Show)
  • Composition: Aluminium Bronze
• Legal Tender: Official Australian $1 coin.

Condition and Presentation

Each coin is supplied in its original Royal Australian Mint presentation card, providing historical context regarding the Australian forces' involvement in the conflict.

Condition Note:

• Uncirculated Quality: The coins are in uncirculated condition, retaining their original detail. As is common with aluminium-bronze coins of this age, some may display attractive natural toning.
• Packaging: The original presentation cards may show minor signs of wear consistent with their 20+ year age. Cards may be supplied folded.
• Preservation: To ensure the highest level of long-term protection, some coins may be transferred to archival-quality Mylar coin flips if the original plastic housing has become compromised.