1994 Australian 50 Cent Coin (Elizabeth II), Standard Circulating Issue
Coin / Numismatic Object · Royal Australian Mint (Canberra), the national mint for Australian currency since 1965.
Pattern: Standard Dodeagonal 50 Cent Issue, Raphael Maklouf Portrait
Type
Coin / Numismatic Object
Maker
Royal Australian Mint (Canberra), the national mint for Australian currency since 1965.
Material
Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). This item is silver in color but contains no actual silver content.
Dimensions
31.51 mm diameter, 15.55 grams weight, 2.5 mm thickness.
Description
A standard dodecagonal Australian fifty-cent piece from 1994. While it possesses a silver-like luster, it is a base-metal cupro-nickel coin used in everyday commerce. The obverse showcases the elegant Maklouf portrait of the Queen, which was used on Australian coinage between 1985 and 1998.
Key Features
12-sided (dodecagonal) shape; Raphael Maklouf effigy; 'RDM' initials; non-precious metal composition.
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). This item is silver in color but contains no actual silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated satin finish; features the third official profile of Queen Elizabeth II wearing the George IV State Diadem. The reverse (not shown) traditionally depicts the Australian Coat of Arms.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks. Inscribed 'ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 1994' on the obverse. Designer's initials 'RDM' are visible on the neck truncation.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck (machine-made) at the Royal Australian Mint. High-pressure striking on a dodecagonal (12-sided) planchet.
Functional Features
Twelve-sided shape for easy tactile identification (tactile currency feature); legal tender and circulating currency.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coin form). Dodecagonal edge provides grip for manual sorting.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial mass production. Details in the crown and hair remain sharp despite circulation, showcasing the durability of the cupro-nickel alloy.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic 12-sided shape; distinctive 1994 date placement; correct profile design for the era; weight and metal color consistent with mint specifications.
Origin & Manufacturing
Canberra, Australia; Royal Australian Mint. Designed by Raphael Maklouf.
Era & Period
Modern Era; Third Portrait Period (1985-1998). Reflects late 20th-century Commonwealth numismatic design.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1994 (30 years old as of 2024).
Cultural Significance
A staple of Australian identity and trade; reflects the constitutional monarchy through the royal effigy.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition. Shows moderate surface wear, minor bag marks, and light scratches consistent with general use in commerce. Grade: Very Good to Fine.
Value Estimate
Face value (0.50 AUD) in circulated condition. High-grade uncirculated examples might fetch 2.00-5.00 AUD; rare error variants would be higher.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean with abrasives, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a dry environment to prevent nickel oxidation or 'milk spots.' Use Mylar flips for long-term storage.
Similar Pieces
1966 Round Silver 50c (contains .3416 oz silver); commemorative 50c pieces (e.g., Year of the Family 1994 variant); UK 50p coins (heptagonal).
Interesting Facts
The Australian 50c coin is one of the largest coins in circulation globally and was originally circular and made of 80% silver in 1966 before the rising price of silver caused the change to this 12-sided cupro-nickel version.