Quote from: 'lacey' pid='31056' dateline='1381803794'I was just reading this:

The 50 cent coin was first introduced with decimalisation on 14 February 1966. The original design featured the Commonwealth Coat of Arms struck on an 80 per cent silver coin. Silver prices rose above the face value of the coin in 1967 and striking of the coin was suspended in March 1968. Although it was rumoured that the Royal Australian Mint had lost money on striking these coins, all metal used in the manufacture of the 36.5 million coins produced was purchased before the price rises.

Apart from the uneconomic cost of continuing the issue of the silver 50 cents, significant negative comment arose from confusion of the circular coin with the 20 cents. The decision to reissue a 50 cent coin considered not only a change to materials but also different shapes to help solve confusion with the 20 cents. A new shape and alloy was reintroduced into circulation in September 1969.

Does that mean they were still making round 50c coins in 67 and part of 68??

According to Renniks they produced pattern only round and dodecagonal 1967 silver coins.
Brushy

I haven't collected these for years, but have only accumulated about 6 of this date. According to Renniks there were 8.25 m minted, but compared to all other dates, reasonably hard to get. I know this is probably old news, but have many of you been able to collect decent quantities.
Cheers,
Brushy 1953

I'm interested If anyone has come across Aust decimal star notes in particular the  Phillips and Randall $20 note. I read 1 online article suggesting that they are appreciating at a rate of 20% pa, but I guess that depends on condition etc.

Cheers,
Brushy

Quote from: 'Unicorn' pid='24274' dateline='1375926232':welcome: to the forum Brushy ..... :i_agree: would love some closeup pics! Could be a die fill ...

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Well that was quick ...... ya beat me to it

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Still going with the could be a die fill ...... geez for a 1968 coin it's in top condition ..... how long have you had them?

I've had them 44 years. picked them all up together in change. There is a distinct "concave" nature of the "pool" which should contain the initials. So I'm still confident there is no fill in. What do you think? Cheers.

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I've had them 44 years, picked them all up on same day in change. There is a distinct "concave nature of the "pool" that should contain the SD so I'm still confident there's no fill. What do you think?

Thanks for all replies. I hope this photo shows the detail

I have in my possession 3 1968 20 cent coins that have no "SD" designer's initials. I have contacted the RAM and they assure me that no coins of this type exist. I would be interested if anyone has come across such coins as I understand there are a few 2 cent coins with missing "SD"