1997 $1 Coin - 100th Anniversary of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith

1997 $1 Uncirculated Coin – Sir Charles Kingsford Smith: Centenary of Birth:

Celebrate the centenary of Australia's legendary aviator, Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, with this 1997 commemorative $1 coin. Known affectionately as "Smithy," he was a pioneer of early aviation who captivated the world with the first trans-Pacific flight and his record-breaking journey from Australia to London.

This release captures the spirit of adventure that defined his extraordinary career, featuring his famous Fokker Tri-motor aircraft, the Southern Cross.

Key Features and Design:

• Aviation Tribute: Honours the 100th anniversary of the birth of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith (1897–1935), Australia’s most iconic pioneering pilot.
• Iconic Imagery: The reverse design by Wojciech Pietranik features a portrait of Smithy in his flying gear alongside the Southern Cross, superimposed over a map showing his historic Pacific crossing.
• Limited Show Mintmarks: This coin was produced in limited numbers across various Australian shows, each bearing a unique mintmark:
  • 'A' (Adelaide): Royal Adelaide Show (Mintage: 33,060)
  • 'B' (Brisbane): Royal Brisbane Show (Mintage: 40,800)
  • 'C' (Canberra): Gallery Press "Mint Your Own" (Mintage: 244,450)
  • 'M' (Melbourne): Royal Melbourne Show (Mintage: 41,210)
  • 'S' (Sydney): Royal Sydney Show (Mintage: 89,800)
• Uncirculated Finish: Struck in aluminium bronze to the Royal Australian Mint’s high uncirculated standard.

Specifications:

• Year: 1997
• Denomination: $1
• Metal: Aluminium Bronze
• Weight: 9g
• Diameter: 25mm
• Finish: Uncirculated
• Mint: Royal Australian Mint
• Obverse: Features the 3rd portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Raphael Maklouf.
• Numista Ref: N# 12607

Condition and Presentation:

• Condition: This coin remains in uncirculated condition.
• Presentation: Housed in the original official Royal Australian Mint presentation card.
• Packaging Note: The original cards are supplied folded and remain in good, clean condition, though they may show minor signs of shelf wear due to their age.
• Natural Character: As common with aluminium-bronze coins from the late 90s, some pieces may display attractive natural toning.
• Preservation: To ensure long-term protection, some coins may be transferred to archival-quality Mylar coin flips.