2008 Royal Australian Mint 2-Coin Uncirculated Set - International Year of Planet Earth

2008 2-Coin Uncirculated Set – International Year of Planet Earth

This special uncirculated set was issued by the Royal Australian Mint in 2008 to commemorate the International Year of Planet Earth. Declared by the United Nations, this year focused on the theme "Earth Sciences for Society," highlighting the crucial role of geology and science in building a safer, more sustainable world.

The set is highly prized by collectors for containing a unique, one-year-only $1 coin design that was not released into general circulation.

Key Features and Specifications

• Year of Issue: 2008
• Theme: International Year of Planet Earth (United Nations)
• Set Contents:
  • $1 Coin: Features a unique commemorative reverse design depicting the Earth as a series of geological layers or "slices," symbolising the complexity of our planet's sciences.
  • 20c Coin: A standard uncirculated 2008 20-cent piece.
• Limited Mintage: Only 30,499 of these sets were produced, making the $1 coin a relatively scarce modern commemorative.
• Obverse Design: Both coins feature the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
• Composition: Aluminium Bronze ($1) and Cupro-Nickel (20c).
• Legal Tender: Official Australian currency.

Historical Significance

The International Year of Planet Earth was the largest international effort ever undertaken to promote the earth sciences. By focusing on geological hazards, resource management, and environmental health, the initiative aimed to better equip society to handle the challenges of a changing planet. This set serves as a numismatic tribute to that global scientific endeavour.

Condition and Presentation

Sets remain in like-new condition and are presented in their original Royal Australian Mint illustrative folder, which provides detailed information about the Earth Sciences theme.

Condition Note: * Protected by its original clear plastic slipcover, ensuring the packaging remains in excellent condition.

• As with all uncirculated sets of this age, the coins retain their original mint lustre, though very minor natural toning may occur over time.