The fifty cent coin was first introduced with decimal currency on 14 February 1966. The original design featured the Commonwealth Coat of Arms struck on a coin made from 80% silver. However as the silver price rose above the face value of the coin the Mint suspended striking of the coin in March 1968.
Although it was rumoured that the Mint had lost money striking the fifty cent, all the metal used in the manufacture of the 36.5 million coins produced was purchased before the price rises.
Apart from the uneconomic cost of continuing the issue of the silver fifty cent coins, increasing confusion arose regarding the similarity in sizes between the circular fifty cent and the twenty cent coin. The decision to reissue a fifty cent coin considered not only a change to materials but also different shapes to help solve the confusion with the twenty cents.
A new shape and alloy was reintroduced into circulation in September 1969.
This denomination has since been used for commemorative designs.
A competition was lauched by the Royal Australian Mint for the design of a 50 cent coin by Primary School Students. It was won by John Serrano who dre.....
Two beautifully gold plated silver proof 50 cent coins
Struck by the Royal Australian Mint, this stunning 2010 silver coin set celebrates the 150th.....
To mark the joyous occasion the Royal Australian Mint released this 99.9% fine silver proof on the birth of Princess Charlotte the second child of the.....
