National Reconciliation Week 2017: New 50 cent coin in circulation

This year’s National Reconciliation Week commemorates the 50th anniversary of the 1967 referendum and the 25th anniversary of the Mabo decision. To celebrate, the Royal Australian Mint has released a new special 50 cent circulating coin, to recognise these important dates in Australia’s history.

Designed in collaboration with Boneta-Marie Mabo, an award-winning contemporary artist and Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo’s granddaughter, the coin design features Eddie Mabo, the Torres Strait flag and Australian Aboriginal flag, and iconic pamphlets from the 1967 referendum.

A fine silver proof collectible coin is available, and will include a bonus 50 cent circulating version of the same design in a separate card. Circulating coin sachets are also available. Rolled coins will be available from dealers. All products will be available from midday, Wednesday 24 May.

Reconciliation Trail – Get your own coin in your change

The cultural national institutions around Canberra who have events happening throughout National Reconciliation Week will also have the coin in their tills, providing an opportunity for the public to either get a surprise or encourage them to go to the institution for one of the coins.

The institutions involved are:

  • Royal Australian Mint Coin Shop
  • Australian Parliament House
  • Museum of Australian Democracy
  • National Portrait Gallery
  • National Library of Australia
  • National Film and Sound Archives

The following rules apply for the Mint Coin Shop till:

  • Customer must make a cash purchase.
  • Only available as change.
  • Limited to one coin per transaction per day.

The Royal Australian Mint acknowledges the Ngunnawal People, traditional custodians of the land on which these coins were minted.