On a spring day in London, 21 April 1926, Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary was born into a world that could scarcely imagine the extraordinary role she would one day play. From those early beginnings, Queen Elizabeth II would grow to become one of the most recognisable and respected figures of the modern era — a monarch whose life came to symbolise duty, continuity and steadfast service.
Ascending the throne at just 25 years of age, Queen Elizabeth II entered a period of immense social and political change with remarkable composure. Across seven decades, she witnessed and helped guide the monarchy through moments of triumph, challenge and transformation, earning admiration not only within the United Kingdom, but throughout the Commonwealth and around the world.
Her reign became defined by constancy. Through changing governments, cultural shifts and historic global events, she remained a reassuring and familiar presence — committed to public service with an unwavering sense of responsibility. It was this enduring dedication, combined with her quiet resilience, that shaped her legacy and secured her place as the longest-reigning monarch in British history.
One of the defining moments at the beginning of this remarkable journey came on 2 June 1953, when the young Queen was crowned at Westminster Abbey. Televised for the first time on such a scale, the coronation brought millions together in a shared moment of history. Ancient traditions unfolded beneath the grandeur of the Abbey, while audiences across the Commonwealth watched a new Elizabethan era begin.
The coronation itself carried deep symbolism — from the sacred anointing and the crowning with St Edward’s Crown, to the triumphant procession through London’s streets. Yet beyond the ceremony was the image of a young woman stepping into a lifetime of service, embodying both continuity and renewal at a pivotal moment in history.
The Design
Now, as the anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation approaches, the Royal Australian Mint is issuing a commemorative coin honouring both this historic occasion and the centenary of her birth. This special release builds upon the earlier coin marking what would have been Her Majesty’s 100th birthday, distinguished by the addition of a ‘C’ privy mark — representing the Roman numeral for 100.
For collectors and history enthusiasts alike, the coin offers a meaningful tribute to a life and reign of extraordinary significance. It reflects not only the grandeur of the coronation in 1953, but also the legacy of a monarch whose influence extended far beyond the ceremony itself.
As we remember Queen Elizabeth II, we reflect on more than a single royal occasion. We remember a lifetime of dedication, grace and service — qualities that defined an era and left an enduring mark on history.
Nearly a century after her birth, and decades after that historic day at Westminster Abbey, her legacy continues to resonate across generations.
Availability
From Monday 25 May 2026 8:30am (AEST):
- Ballot opens: Monday 25 May 2026 8:30am AEST
- Ballot closes: Wednesday 27 May 2026 8:30am AEST
From Thursday 28 May 2026 8:30am (AEST):
Mint Contact Centre (1300 652 020)
Mint Shop
Mintage: 1,926
Price: $20.00
Limit per person: 1