Australia: New silver dollar Proof coins mark 90 years of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation 

The Royal Australian Mint celebrates the 90th anniversary of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation with the release of 20-cent and one-dollar commemorative coins. Essentially known as “the other ABC,” and differentiating it from the American network with the same initials, Australia’s national broadcaster has told the Australian story through a myriad of platforms and media for nine decades. From its beginnings in radio to the introduction of television and the rise of digital media, “Aunty,” so called because of its function as an attraction and focal point, especially for a younger audience and older viewers alike, the ABC has always been there to inform, educate, and entertain. Founded on the 1st July 1932, the Australian Broadcasting Commission (ABC) has since become a much-loved touchstone of Australia’s social and cultural fabric. Starting as a single radio service, the network has grown into a multi-platform media operation and a public broadcaster of international renown. The ABC Charter, set down by Parliament, requires the ABC to provide informative, entertaining, and educational services that reflect the breadth of the nation as a whole. The ABC has also created some of the most iconic Australian content and has truly become the voice of the nation. Everything from Play School and Bluey for children, 4 Corners and This Day Tonight for news and current events content, to the game shows Count Down and Triple J Top 100, the ABC has always innovated, commentated, and reflected what it is to be Australian. With satellite links, it is now possible for Australians living abroad to still keep current with events and entertainment as well as viewers around the world who are just curious about life down under.

Designed by Royal Australian Mint artisan Aleksandra Stokic, the reverse side, which is shared on both denominations, features the iconic ABC logo in the centre and as the major design element. Around the ABC logo are other logos, pictograms, and titles representing the multiple facets of the ABC, including the shows Rage, Count Down, Bananas in Pyjamas, Play School, Foreign Correspondent, and Emergency Radio, among others. As the coins were produced before the death of Queen Elizabeth in September, they include the Commonwealth version of her effigy along with the denomination 1 DOLLAR (silver) or 20 CENTS (cupro-nickel) shown below her likeness and the year 2022 as part of the legend.

Denom.	Metal	Weight	Diameter	Quality	Maximum Mintage
20 cents	Cupro-nickel	11.3 g	28.5 mm	Brilliant Unc.	30,000
One dollar	.999 Silver	15.5 g	28.5 mm	Proof	5,000

The Brilliant Uncirculated 20-cent coins are enclosed in a blister-pak coin card which includes informative text and illustrations celebrating the ABC’s 90th anniversary. The one-dollar silver Proof coins are encapsulated and presented in a custom case accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. For additional information, please click here for the one-dollar coin or here for the 20-cent coin.

❑

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!