Australian & Oceanian Coins

Which coins are considered Australian and Oceanian?

Coins considered Australian and Oceanian are those issued by Australia and various islands in the Pacific Ocean. Australia's coinage history dates to its colonial period and the creation of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901, marked by the introduction of Australian coins. The Royal Australian Mint and the Perth Mint produce them, with the Australian Dollar (AUD) as the official currency. New Zealand boasts a coinage history dating back to the 19th century, with the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) as its official currency. Various Pacific Island nations, including Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, and the Solomon Islands, issue their own currencies, featuring local symbols and leaders on their coins. French overseas territories in the Pacific, such as French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and Wallis and Futuna, use the Pacific Franc (CFP). Additionally, numerous territories and dependencies across the region may use different currencies or issue their own coins.

What is the history of coinage in Australia and Oceania?

The history of coins in Australia and Oceania is relatively short, owing to the region's historical isolation until recent times. During the early colonial era, various European nations established colonies in the area, using their respective coinage systems. For instance, the British pound served as the currency in Australia. As different nations in the region gained independence, they initiated the issuance of their own currencies, including the New Zealand pound (1840), the Australian pound (1910), the Fijian dollar (1969), and the Papua New Guinean kina (1975). During the 1960s and 1970s, a significant monetary shift occurred as many countries adopted decimal currency systems, replacing pounds, shillings, and pence with dollars and cents. For example, the Australian dollar was introduced in 1966, followed by the New Zealand dollar in 1967.

What are some common characteristics of Australian & Oceanian coins?

Many of the Australian and Oceanian coins feature indigenous art and symbols, paying homage to the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples. Native flora and fauna, such as the kangaroo, emu, and various Pacific Island motifs, are frequently depicted in the designs. Coins from these regions also tend to include images of prominent figures, leaders, or historical events that hold significance in their respective countries. Moreover, Australian and Oceanian coins are typically made of various metals, including copper, nickel, silver, and gold, depending on the denomination and commemorative nature. In addition to artistic elements, security features like unique edge lettering, holograms, and colourization are sometimes incorporated into these coins to deter counterfeiting.

What are the most common currencies in Australia and Oceania?

The Australian Dollar (AUD) is the official currency of Australia, with denominations that include 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, one dollar, and two dollars. New Zealand employs the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), similar to Australia in its denominations. Fiji uses the Fijian Dollar (FJD), whereas Papua New Guinea has the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK) as its currency, both featuring unique coins and banknotes. French overseas territories in the Pacific, like New Caledonia and French Polynesia, utilize the Pacific Franc (CFP) with distinctive coin and banknote values. Furthermore, numerous Pacific Island nations have their individual currencies such as the Tongan Pa'anga (TOP), Samoan Tala (WST), and Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). Additionally, some territories and dependencies in the region, like American Samoa and Guam, use the United States Dollar (USD) as their official currency for practical transactions.

Are there any rare or valuable coins from this region that collectors seek?

One of the most highly sought coins is the "1930 Australian Penny," which is incredibly rare due to its low mintage. The "1955 Australian Penny" is another rare and valuable coin because of its relatively small mintage and unique features. Additionally, the "Holey Dollar" from the early colonial period in Australia is a renowned rarity, created by punching the centres out of Spanish dollars, and the "Dump" was the small centre piece that was removed. In New Zealand, the "1935 Waitangi Crown" is a coveted collector's item. This crown features an intricate design and a limited mintage, making it a valuable piece. Another valuable coin from New Zealand is the "1965 Anzac Florin," which is known for a striking error in the initial batch, adding to its collectable appeal. However, it is important to note that the value of these coins often depends on factors like rarity, historical significance, condition, and collector demand.

Which Australian & Oceanian coins can you find on VCoins?

In this section, you will find a diverse collection of coins from the continent of Australia and surrounding islands from 15000 AD to today. Coins are grouped according to the issuing country or territory.

Australia

Before the 19th century, the region now known as Australia did not have its own coinage. Indigenous populations had their own systems of trade and exchange, which often involved the use of items like shells and stone tools as forms of currency. When European explorers and settlers arrived in the late 18th century, foreign currencies such as the British pounds, the Spanish dollars, and the Dutch guilders, were used for trade in the area. The "Holey Dollar" and "Dump" coins are notable examples from this period. In 1901, the Federation of Australia led to the establishment of the Commonwealth of Australia, and the first official Australian coins were introduced. The currency shifted from pounds, shillings, and pence to the Australian Dollar (AUD) in 1966 when Australia decimalized its currency. Today, Australian coins feature several denominations, each adorned with images representing Australian culture and heritage.

French Polynesia

The history of coinage in French Polynesia is closely tied to its colonial past. Before the arrival of European colonizers, the indigenous Maohi people used a system of barter for trade. It was during the 19th century when French influence began to grow in the region that the first coins specifically intended for use in French Polynesia emerged. These were often French colonial issues, and they circulated alongside other international currencies like the French Franc and the Spanish dollar. In the mid-20th century, French Polynesia began issuing its own banknotes and coins, featuring unique designs representing the culture and natural beauty of the islands. Notably, the Pacific Franc (CFP), which is still used in French overseas territories like French Polynesia, was introduced as the common currency in the region.

Netherlands East Indies

The history of coinage in the Netherlands East Indies, a former Dutch colonial territory that included present-day Indonesia, is a testament to its colonial past. The Dutch East India Company began establishing trading posts in the early 17th century, and as their presence in the region expanded, they introduced their coinage for local transactions. Dutch coins like the duiten, the stuivers, and the guilders, among other denominations, were used for trade. Later, the Dutch colonial government issued specific coinage for the Netherlands East Indies with inscriptions in Dutch and Malay. After Japan's occupation during World War II and Indonesia's struggle for independence, the Netherlands formally transferred sovereignty in 1949. As a result, Indonesian Rupiah became the official currency, and the colonial-era coinage eventually fell out of circulation, though some are now sought after by collectors for their historical significance.

New Zealand

The history of coinage in New Zealand is closely linked to its colonial and economic development. Prior to European colonization, indigenous M?ori communities used a system of barter and traditional forms of currency, like the prized greenstone (pounamu). At the beginning of the 19th century, European settlers introduced foreign coins, including British pounds, Spanish dollars, and Dutch guilders. In 1933, New Zealand transitioned to a national coinage system, featuring the New Zealand Pound as the official currency. This remained in place until 1967 when New Zealand decimalized its currency, leading to the adoption of the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) as the modern currency. This coin features symbols of the region, including native wildlife and cultural motifs, reflecting its rich heritage and natural beauty.

Papua Nueva Guinea

Before colonization, indigenous communities in Papua New Guinea used shells, pigs, and precious stones as currency for trade. European settlers and explorers introduced foreign currencies to the region, including British pounds and Australian pounds. After becoming a United Nations Trust Territory under the Australian administration in 1949, Papua New Guinea started using the Australian currency system. In 1975, the region gained independence from Australia and introduced its own national currency, the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK), along with the smaller denomination, the Toea. These modern coins and banknotes often depict local flora, fauna, and cultural symbols, reflecting the rich diversity of the country. Today, the Royal Australian Mint and the Royal Mint in the United Kingdom assist in producing some of Papua New Guinea's coinage.