Spirit of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games to be honoured by the Royal Australian Mint
9th May 2005
To celebrate the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games, The Royal Australian Mint will issue the first release of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games Coin Collection on the 12th of May 2005, featuring a sixteen coin set of 50 cent pieces.
This is the beginning of a unique and exciting 50 cent coin collection that will be released progressively up to the commencement of the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in March 2006 and is designed to represent both the spirit of the games and each of the 16 represented sports
The controller of The Royal Australian Mint Dr Vivienne Thom said, "The Royal Australian Mint is honoured to release these coins in this wonderful collection.
Australians are a nation of sports lovers and I am sure there will be something here for everyone. In addition, the 50 cent piece is very popular amongst Australians and for serious collectors this set will be an added bonus."
The first four sporting coins included in part of this distinctive collection are depict basketball; hockey, shooting and weightlifting. An additional two coins are supplied in the set and are the $5 Melbourne 2006 Queens Baton Relay $5 Coin and the popular 50c Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games Student Design Coin.
These coins are the beginning of a striking collection that is sure to generate strong interest from collectors' world wide.
The remaining coins will be released in coming months to coincide with the lead up to the Games.
Orders for this release or any Royal Australian Mint products can be placed by contacting the Royal Australian Mint on 1300 652 020 or order online at www.ramint.gov.au.