Elizabeth II Australian Threepence
|
Obverse |
Elizabeth II - Mary Gillick Legend (1953-54): ELIZABETH . II. DEI. GRATIA. REGINA + |
|
Reverse |
Wheat Stalk and Ribbon Device - George Kruger Gray Legend: Australia Threepence |
|
Composition |
50% Silver, 40% Copper, 5% Zinc, 5% Nickel |
|
Mass |
1.41 g |
|
Size |
16 mm (5/8””) |
|
Actual Silver Weight (ASW) |
0.02267 tr.oz. |
The last of the pre-decimal Australian threepence were minted under the monarchy of Queen Elizabeth the second. Each year was minted in Australia. The only historical fact of note was the changing of the legend on the obverse in the first two minting years. The abbreviation F:D (abbreviation of latin for defender of the faith) had been removed and this caused a storm of controversy in conservative Australian society. As a result the abbreviation was returned on the obverse legend from 1955 onwards.
As noted above the Elizabeth II 3d was released with two different obverses with the only difference being the legend. The reverse used the same wheat stalk/ribbon device as the George VI threepence.
The first two years coins provide the only difficulty for the collector with prices being quite high due to their low circulation. That being said the serious collector should really look for the Elizabeth II 3d in UNC or better condition. Gem condition coins for most years are not that difficult to find and should be purchased in preference to the UNC varieties.