For the first time since 1963, Australia’s Perth Mint has issued a modern version of the timeless mainstay of the British Empire, the florin. At one time British florins circulated on six continents, from Boston to Bombay, Capetown to Cairo. Australia minted its own florins for over 50 years before the transition from the traditional English monetary system (240 pence to the pound) to decimalization (100 cents to the pound) rendered florins obsolete.
After updating the coin for the 21st century, Perth Mint is releasing its 2021 Australian ¼ oz. Gold Florin for distribution through Birch Gold Group.
Meet the Australian ¼ oz. Gold Florin
This fixed-mintage coin’s obverse features Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, wearing the King George IV diadem and Diamond Jubilee earrings. This is Jody Clark’s instantly-recognizable “fifth portrait” of the Queen, called “the new definitive Britannia.” Weight, purity, denomination and year of minting appear on the obverse. The ¼ oz. Gold Florin is no longer worth a mere two shillings; nominal face value is AU$25.
The reverse of the florin showcases the first Australian Commonwealth coat of arms circa 1908-1912, replacing traditional heraldic beasts with Australian icons. A kangaroo and emu support a shield bearing the Cross of St. George with five six-pointed stars (one for each state). Above the shield is the seven-point star of Federation, and below a banner with the motto, “Advance Australia.” The reverse is marked “1910,” in honor of the first year Australia minted florins. Indeed, the entire reverse of the Gold Florin pays homage to the century-old original design.
The exquisite craftsmanship and detail of this coin will astound you: the kangaroo seems poised to leap right off the coin. The emu’s flowing feathers, even the texture of the grass are represented with almost unimaginable precision.
First issued in 1344 by Edward III, the florin is a piece of history connecting Medieval England to modern-day Australia. This is a unique chance to own a piece of the British Empire.
The Australian ¼ oz. Gold Florin is available to Birch Gold Group customers only. Choose between home delivery or placement within a Precious Metals IRA.
