Queensland student's design featured in new State Coin Set

A new commemorative 20 cent coin for Queensland, designed by a North Queensland school student, was officially launched today in Brisbane by the Federal Minister for Small Business, The Hon Ian Macfarlane, MP.

Jenifer Gray of Ingham designed the coin as part of a special series produced by the Royal Australian Mint to commemorate Australia's Centenary of Federation.

Jenifer, who completed year 12 at Ingham State High School last year, developed her unusual and beautiful design in response to a national competition run by the Royal Australian Mint during late 2000. Her design was selected from over 500 entries from approximately 170 schools throughout the State.

The uniquely Queensland design depicts the progress of the State, with a clock-face in the background, and its beginnings represented by a gecko. The transformation of society over time is symbolised by footsteps changing to shoeprints as it journeys towards an age of technology represented by a computer chipboard.

"Coins have been used for thousands of years to represent events of special significance. Jenifer's design allows us to share with future generations what we celebrate, what we value, and what important developments shape us,' Mr Macfarlane said

The 20c coin featuring Jenifer's design, a 50c piece depicting the Queensland Coat of Arms and a $1 coin showing the Centenary of Federation logo are combined in a Three-Coin Set for Queensland. These collector coins are now available in both proof or uncirculated versions. The coins will be released into general circulation in the second half of 2001.

The Queensland Three Coin Set is the third in a series of nine to be released by the Mint for all Australian States and Self-governing Territories during 2001. Coin sets for New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory were recently issued. Coin sets for Victoria, Norfolk Island, Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania will be progressively released through the year.

The other State and Territory coin sets will feature the common $1 coin depicting the Centenary of Federation logo, a 50c piece depicting the respective State/Territory Coat of Arms, and a 20c coin unique to each State/Territory designed by school students.

All of the coins for each State and Self-governing Territory can be collected in a 20 coin collection. The collector coin sets are available from The Royal Australian Mint on 1300 652 020, coin dealers, and in selected Australia Post outlets.