2018 $1 Coin - Rascals & Ratbags: Convict Era – 'C' Mintmark Series

2018 $1 Rascals & Ratbags: Convict Era – 'C' Mintmark Series:

Celebrate the colourful and complex history of Australia’s convict past with the "Rascals & Ratbags" commemorative series. Issued by the Royal Australian Mint, this collection marks 150 years since the end of convict transportation to Australia (1788–1868), honouring the diverse stories of those who helped build the nation from a "hard life of labour" to one of freedom and influence.

Each coin in this multi-product listing features the prestigious 'C' (Canberra) Mintmark, signifying it was struck on the gallery press at the Royal Australian Mint.

Available Figures in this Series:

Select from the following five commemorative releases, each featuring a dedicated biographical presentation card detailing a unique convict story:

• John Boyle O'Reilly: An Irish Nationalist and poet who made a daring escape from a Western Australian penal colony on a whaling ship, later becoming an acclaimed writer and editor in America.
• Ann Mash: Transported for stealing, she became one of the colony’s successful businesswomen after gaining her freedom, a testament to the resilience of many women in the convict era.
• Esther Abrahams Johnston: A First Fleet convict who rose from poverty to become the "First Lady" of New South Wales after marrying George Johnston, the officer who famously led the Rum Rebellion.
• James Davis: Transported as a young man, he escaped and lived with an Aboriginal tribe for 14 years, becoming known as "Duramboi" before re-entering colonial society as a guide and interpreter.
• Alexander Pearce: One of the most infamous figures in Australian history, Pearce was a serial escapee from the brutal Sarah Island penal settlement, notorious for surviving by cannibalising his fellow escapees.
  

Key Features and Specifications:

• Theme: Rascals & Ratbags – Australia’s Convict Era (1788–1868)
• Mintmark: 'C' (Canberra) – Struck at the Royal Australian Mint gallery press.
• Reverse Design: A symbolic design featuring a convict ship, a chain, and the iconic "Broad Arrow" motif, alongside the series logo.
• Obverse Design: Features the 4th portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley.
• Composition: Aluminium Bronze
• Weight: 9g
• Diameter: 25mm
• Finish: Uncirculated
• Legal Tender: Official Australian $1 coin.

Condition and Presentation:

• Condition: Each coin remains in uncirculated condition, exhibiting its original mint lustre and sharp detail, some toning may be present.
• Presentation: Housed in the original official Royal Australian Mint fold-out presentation card. Each card features a detailed biography of the featured "Rascal" or "Ratbag."
• Note: All coins are supplied in their original collector packaging. Minor shelf wear may be present on the cards consistent with their age.