The 2025 $1 uncirculated coin not only honours a century of dedicated service in military communications but also features a hidden message in Morse and binary code, challenging collectors and enthusiasts to decipher its secrets.
Since its establishment in 1925, the Royal Australian Corps of Signals has been vital in securing and relaying critical military communications, pioneering advancements in electronic warfare, cyber operations and defence technology. This commemorative coin pays tribute to the thousands of men and women who have safeguarded Australia’s communications on the battlefield and beyond.
Designed by Mint artist Adam Ball, the coin is rich in symbolism. At its centre stands Mercury, the Roman messenger god, reflecting the Corps’ motto of swift and sure communication. Mercury stands on a globe, symbolising the Corps’ far-reaching impact. A wreath of leaves, reminiscent of the original Corps badge, encircles the design, while the background features Morse and binary code — a visual link between the Corps’ origins and its cutting-edge role in modern cyber warfare.
The obverse of the coin features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III, designed by Daniel Thorne.
Royal Australian Mint acting Chief Executive Officer, Emily Martin, expressed her excitement for this remarkable release, encouraging Australians to explore its hidden depths.
“Our latest $1 coin is cloaked in layers of secret code to mark the Centenary of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals, an organisation that has been at the forefront of the Army’s technological evolution,” Ms Martin said.
“Developing this coin was a really complex task – and there is also an interesting challenge for those who love puzzles and code-cracking!”
The Royal Australian Corps of Signals Head of Corps Brigadier Deane Limmer thanked the Mint for marking this Centenary milestone in such a unique way.
“For 100 years, the men and women of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals have ensured that the Army remains connected, secure and ready for any challenge,” Brigadier Limmer said.
“As our currency has evolved from pounds and pence to dollars and cents, Army signals has gone from trench warfare to electronic warfare; from semaphore to satellites and cyberspace.
“This commemorative coin is a fitting tribute to their dedication, innovation and service and we are honoured by this recognition.”
After hearing Ms Martin on the radio this morning, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia dropped into the Mint to purchase a coin for her father, who was a member of the Corps of Signals.
The 2025 $1 Uncirculated Coin – Swift and Sure – Centenary of Royal Australian Corps of Signals is available from the Royal Australian Mint for $17.50. 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 award-winning, world-class and a global leader in the mint industry. It 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.
Mintage: 50,000
Obverse: King Charles III
Price: $17.50