Royal Australian Mint honours Dorothea Mackellar with new three-coin series

Etched into the hearts of Australians for generations, Mackellar’s words “I love a sunburnt country, a land of sweeping plains” embody the beauty, resilience and spirit of the nation. Now, her timeless verses are brought to life in this exquisite coin series, a fitting tribute to her enduring poetic legacy. Officially launching at the Dorothea Mackellar Centre in Gunnedah on Thursday, 13 March, this collection brings three of her most beloved poems – Dawn, My Country and The Colours of Light – to life in stunning detail.

Royal Australian Mint Executive Manager Sales, Marketing and Innovation, Jennifer Sullivan, said the collection paid tribute to Mackellar’s ability to capture Australia’s landscapes and spirit in verse. “Dorothea Mackellar’s poetry continues to resonate with Australians of all generations. Her words evoke the essence of this land, its vastness, resilience and natural beauty. “Through this coin series, we hope to celebrate her enduring influence and provide collectors with a meaningful connection to her legacy,” Ms Sullivan said.

The first coin, inspired by Dawn, captures the tranquil beauty of the road to Gunnedah, a place Mackellar held dear. As the soft light of sunrise spreads across trees and mountains, a delicate spider web glistens, embodying the poem’s quiet reverence for nature’s awakening.

The second coin brings to life My Country, her most iconic work – a love letter to a land of striking contrasts, from sunlit beaches to storm-swept plains.

The final coin, inspired by The Colours of Light, is a vivid tribute to Mackellar’s lyrical mastery of colour and movement, featuring a dazzling peacock and radiant flora.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Colleen Fuller said Gunnedah was proud of its connection with Dorothea Mackellar. “It is wonderful this much-loved poet will be commemorated with these coins, and we are thrilled they are being launched in Gunnedah. “We welcome the Royal Australian Mint and visitors to our Shire, and celebrate yet another chapter in Dorothea Mackellar’s life,” Cr Fuller said.

Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society President, Pip Murray, welcomed the release of the series, highlighting its significance to Gunnedah and beyond. "We are excited to be part of the release of the Dorothea Mackellar coin series. We know from Dorothea's diaries that Gunnedah held a special place in her heart and her poetry so it is fitting that the launch is being held here,” Mrs Murray said.

These coins are more than exquisite works of art; they are a tangible connection to Mackellar’s legacy. Available as a three-coin collection or individually, they offer poetry lovers and collectors a chance to hold a piece of Australia’s cultural heritage. Mackellar’s words – whether describing the “far horizon” of her beloved country or the “sapphire-misted mountains” of her imagination – continue to inspire, and this coin series ensures that her vision endures.

The Dorothea Mackellar three-coin series will be available for purchase from the Royal Australian Mint from 13 March for $20 each for individual coins or $50 for the boxed set.

It can be purchased through the following channels:

• Mint Contact Centre on 1300 652 020
• The Mint Shop, Denison Street, Deakin
• The Mint’s online shop at www.eshop.ramint.gov.au
• From participating authorised distributors

About the Royal Australian Mint
The Mint is an award-winning, world class Mint and a global leader in the mint industry. The Mint produces circulating coins for Australia and other countries; collectible and investment coins for domestic and international customers; and custom-made medals, medallions and tokens for individual or corporate clients. The Mint is also a national cultural attraction that educates millions of Australians and international visitors on the history of Australia’s decimal currency, and the significance and value of coins.

As an organisation that strives to take better care of the environment, to cultivate safe and inclusive workplaces and to make a positive impact on the communities where it operates, the Mint integrates environmental, social and governance practices in every aspect of its operations.

Media Enquiries: For media enquiries, or to request an interview, contact media@ramint.gov.au or 6202 3466