25th anniversary of the removal Australia’s 1 and 2 cent coins from circulation

This month we pass the 25 year anniversary since our bronze coloured coins were removed from circulation. Although this was a quarter of a century ago, the designs on these pieces are still loved today. There are many facts that you may not know about these bronze delights and to mark this anniversary we are sharing some with you - see below:

  • Stuart Devlin’s original design for the nation’s two cent piece was the adorable ‘Kangaroo and Joey’ design. While the frill-necked lizard eventually won out, this iconic image has stood the test of time, a testament to the immunity of great design and a true hallmark of Stuart Devlin’s enduring appeal. As a nod to the past, this will be made available for $12.50 each https://eshop.ramint.gov.au/  
  • Although both coins were withdrawn from circulation commencing in February 1992, they are still legal tender. This means that they can still be used to purchase goods and can be deposited with financial institutions in the normal manner.
  • Once the 1 cent and 2 cent piece were removed from circulation they were recycled for new and exciting purposes. The Bronze medals given out at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games were made of the 1 and 2 cent pieces!
  • New Zealand removed their 1 and 2 cent pieces from circulation in 1989, two years before Australia.
  • One and two cent coins were produced by the Royal Australian Mint, the Royal Mint Melbourne branch, the Royal Mint Perth branch, and the Royal Mint, Llantrisant. The two cent coin was the last circulating coin for Australia struck outside the Royal Australian Mint.