The Royal Australian Mint celebrates 70 years of Australian television broadcasting with a colourful design paying tribute to our television history.
Australian television flickered to life on 16 September 1956, just in time for the Melbourne Olympic Games, when Bruce Gyngell famously greeted viewers with, “Good evening and welcome to television.” In its early black-and-white years, families gathered around bulky sets for newsreels, variety hours and children’s programs that quickly became household favourites. The arrival of colour in 1975 transformed the viewing experience, ushering in iconic shows like Countdown and bringing sport and drama to vivid life.
Through the decades, programs such as Neighbours, Play School and Four Corners helped shape national conversations and cultural identity. Satellite links and regional broadcasting expanded television’s reach, connecting remote communities to shared moments. Today, Australian television blends free-to-air, streaming and on-demand viewing, continuing to tell local stories while competing on a global stage - proof that a medium born in black and white still thrives in a brilliant, digital age.
Design
Tune in on 11 September 2026 when the iconic coin design is revealed!
From Olympic triumphs and royal visits to election nights and New Year’s fireworks, Australians have gathered around the telly to witness history unfold. In lounge rooms across the country, families cheer, gasp and reflect together - shared moments on screen that become shared memories, binding a vast nation through the glow of television.
Availability
From Friday 11 September 2026 8:30am (AEST):
- Ballot opens: Friday 11 September 2026 8:30am AEST
- Ballot closes: Monday 14 September 2026 8:30am AEST
From Tuesday 15 September 2026 8:30am (AEST):
Mint Contact Centre (1300 652 020)
Mint Shop
Participating Authorised Distributors
Mintage 50,000
Price $30.00
Limit per person 3
Mintage 7,000
Price $165.00
Limit per person 1