Discover the value of the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin. Learn about its rarity, condition, and history. Start your collection today!
Are you a coin collector or simply curious about the value of Australian coins? If so, you might be interested to learn about the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin and its current worth. This particular coin holds a special place in Australian numismatic history, as it was the first 20 cent piece ever produced by the Royal Australian Mint. But what makes it so valuable now? Let’s take a closer look.
Firstly, it’s important to note that the 1970 20 cent coin was only in circulation for a short period of time before it was replaced by a smaller version in 1985. This means that there are fewer of them around, making them rarer and more sought after by collectors. Additionally, the coin was minted with a higher silver content than later versions, giving it added value as a precious metal. And if you happen to have a 1970 20 cent coin in near-perfect condition, its value could be even higher. So, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just happen to stumble upon one of these coins, it’s definitely worth taking a closer look at its unique history and potential worth.
Introduction
Australia is known for its unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. In addition to these, the country also has a fascinating history of currency. The Australian 20 cent coin that was first introduced in 1966 holds a prominent place in the history of Australian currency. The 1970 Australian 20 cent coin value is a topic of interest for collectors and investors alike. In this article, we will explore the history and value of this iconic coin.
History of the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin
The 20 cent piece was first introduced in Australia on February 14th, 1966, as part of the introduction of decimal currency. The coin was designed by Stuart Devlin, who was an Australian-born artist and goldsmith. He was commissioned to design the reverse side of all new Australian coins. The first series of the 20 cent coin featured a platypus on the reverse side, while the obverse side featured a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin. The 1970 Australian 20 cent coin is part of this first series.
Design of the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin
The 1970 Australian 20 cent coin features a platypus on the reverse side. The platypus is an iconic Australian animal that is unique due to its combination of mammalian, avian, and reptilian characteristics. The platypus is often featured in Australian art and literature, making it a fitting choice for the reverse side of the coin. The obverse side of the coin features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin. The portrait is surrounded by the words Elizabeth II Australia 1970.
Rarity of the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin
The 1970 Australian 20 cent coin is considered to be rare, as only a limited number of coins were produced with the date 1970. The Royal Australian Mint reports that only 8.5 million 20 cent coins were minted in 1970, which is significantly lower than the number of coins minted in other years. This makes the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin a highly sought-after item among collectors and investors.
Factors Affecting the Value of the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin
The value of the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin is affected by several factors. These include the rarity of the coin, the condition of the coin, and the demand for the coin from collectors and investors. Coins that are in excellent condition and have been well-preserved are typically worth more than coins that are worn or damaged.
Grading of the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin
Coins are graded based on their condition, with higher grades indicating better condition. The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale is commonly used to grade coins, with grades ranging from 1 (poor) to 70 (perfect). The 1970 Australian 20 cent coin is typically graded using the following scale: – Good (G): This grade indicates that the coin is heavily worn and may be difficult to identify. – Very Fine (VF): This grade indicates that the coin has some wear but is still identifiable. – Extremely Fine (EF): This grade indicates that the coin has minimal wear and is in excellent condition. – Uncirculated (UNC): This grade indicates that the coin has never been circulated and is in pristine condition.
Value of the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin
The value of the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin varies depending on its condition and rarity. As of 2021, an uncirculated 1970 Australian 20 cent coin is worth approximately $200. Coins that are in very fine or extremely fine condition are also valuable, with prices ranging from $50 to $150.
Selling the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin
If you are interested in selling your 1970 Australian 20 cent coin, there are several options available to you. One option is to sell your coin to a coin dealer. Coin dealers are experts in the valuation and sale of coins and can provide you with a fair price for your coin. Another option is to sell your coin online. There are several online marketplaces where you can sell rare coins, including eBay and Etsy. When selling your coin online, it is important to accurately describe the condition of the coin and to provide clear photographs.
Conclusion
The 1970 Australian 20 cent coin is a rare and valuable item that holds a prominent place in the history of Australian currency. The combination of the unique platypus design and the limited number of coins produced make this coin highly sought-after among collectors and investors. If you are lucky enough to own a 1970 Australian 20 cent coin, it is important to preserve its condition and seek expert advice when selling it.
Introduction
The Australian 20 cent coin is a popular item among collectors and enthusiasts alike, with its unique design and historical significance. Introduced in 1970, the 20 cent coin replaced the 2 shilling coin, becoming an important part of Australia’s numismatic history.
Historical Significance
The 1970 20 cent coin marked a significant moment in Australia’s currency history, as it was the first time the denomination was introduced. Prior to this, the 2 shilling coin was used, but with the introduction of decimal currency in 1966, a new denomination was needed. The 20 cent coin was chosen and has since become an iconic part of Australian currency.
Rare Varieties
While the 1970 20 cent coin is relatively common, there are a few rare varieties that can command high prices. The most valuable variety is the mule coin, which features the Queen’s head from the 1966 50 cent coin instead of the correct 20 cent coin design. Another rare variety is the double bar error, where two lines appear above the platypus on the reverse side of the coin.
Mintmarks
The 1970 20 cent coin was produced by the Royal Australian Mint, with an ‘M’ mintmark denoting coins produced in Melbourne. This mintmark can be found on the reverse side of the coin, just above the platypus.
Composition
The 1970 20 cent coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a weight of 11.3 grams. Its diameter is 28.52mm, making it one of the larger coins in circulation at the time.
Obverse Design
The obverse of the 1970 20 cent coin features a portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin. This design was used on all Australian coins until 1984.
Reverse Design
The reverse of the 1970 20 cent coin features a platypus, designed by Stuart Devlin. The platypus is an iconic Australian animal, and its inclusion on the coin reflects Australia’s unique wildlife.
Grading
The condition of a 1970 20 cent coin can greatly affect its value, with coins in mint condition commanding the highest prices. Grading is based on a scale from poor to mint state, with mint state coins being those that have never been circulated and show no signs of wear.
Value
While the 1970 20 cent coin is not rare, its value can still range from a few dollars for circulated coins to hundreds of dollars for high-grade specimens. The rare varieties, such as the mule and double bar coins, can fetch even higher prices.
Collecting
For collectors, the 1970 20 cent coin is a must-have addition to any Australian coin collection, and a piece of Australia’s rich numismatic history. Its unique design, historical significance, and rarity make it a valuable and treasured item among collectors.
Once upon a time, there was a coin that captured the hearts of many Australians – the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin. This coin was special because it was the first year that the 20 cent denomination was introduced in Australia.
Here are some interesting facts about the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin:
- It was made of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
- It had a diameter of 31.5mm and weighed 11.3g.
- It featured Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse side.
- It had a unique design on the reverse side – a platypus swimming in water.
Back in the 1970s, this coin had a value of 20 cents, which may not seem like much today. However, back then, it could buy you a loaf of bread, a litre of milk, or even a gallon of petrol. It was a valuable and useful coin that was commonly used in everyday transactions.
Fast forward to present day, the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin is now considered a rare and collectible item. Its value has increased significantly, with some coins selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This is due to its rarity, as many of these coins were lost or destroyed over the years.
Despite its increased value, the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin still holds a special place in the hearts of many Australians. It represents a time when things were simpler and more affordable. It reminds us of our history and the evolution of our currency.
In conclusion, the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin may have started out as just another coin in circulation, but it has since become a cherished piece of Australian history. Its value has gone beyond its monetary worth and has become a symbol of nostalgia and national pride.
Thank you for taking the time to visit our blog and read about the value of the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin. We hope that this article has provided some valuable insights into the history and worth of this iconic piece of Australian currency.
As we have discussed, the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin is a rare and highly sought-after collectible. Despite its relatively recent vintage, it has managed to capture the imagination of numismatists and collectors around the world with its unique design and limited mintage.
If you are lucky enough to have one of these coins in your collection, or if you are considering investing in one, it is important to remember that the value of your coin will depend on a number of factors, including its condition, rarity, and historical significance. So be sure to do your research and consult with experts before making any decisions about buying or selling.
Once again, thank you for visiting our blog and learning more about the value of the 1970 Australian 20 cent coin. We hope that you have found this article informative and helpful, and we look forward to sharing more insights and information with you in the future.
People are often curious about the value of their vintage coins, and the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin is no exception. Below are some common queries that people ask about its worth, along with their respective answers:
-
What is a 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin worth?
The value of a 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin varies depending on its condition and rarity. However, most circulated coins are worth around $2-$3, while uncirculated ones can fetch up to $20 or more.
-
How rare is the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin?
The 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin is considered rare because it was only minted for one year. Additionally, there were two different varieties made that year, one with a large head and another with a small head, making the latter even more scarce.
-
Is it legal to sell a 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin?
Yes, it is legal to sell a 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin as long as it was acquired through legal means. However, it is always advisable to check local laws and regulations regarding the sale of vintage coins in your area.
-
Where can I sell my 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin?
There are various channels where you can sell your 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin, such as online auction sites, coin dealers, and collectors. It’s essential to do your research and compare prices before selling to get the best deal.
-
What factors affect the value of a 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin?
The condition, rarity, and demand are the main factors that affect the value of a 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin. Coins that are in excellent condition, rare, and highly sought after by collectors usually command a higher price.
Overall, while the 1970 Australian 20 Cent Coin may not be worth a fortune, it still holds significant historical and cultural value for coin enthusiasts and collectors alike.
