Holey Dollar and Dump Silver Proof Coin Set for 200th Anniversary

Celebrating the 200th anniversary of an important piece of coinage history, the Perth Mint of Australia has released the 2013 Holey Dollar and Dump 1 Oz Silver Proof Coin Set.

The set commemorates coins issued in New South Wales two centuries ago. These silver coins are composed from one ounce of 99.9% pure silver. The set’s mintage is extremely limited with 4,000 for issue worldwide.

The original Holey Dollar and Dump was a New South Wales product of necessity. By 1813, the area was fast becoming an important settlement of the British Empire. However, coinage in the region was in short supply. To combat that issue, Governor Macquarie authorized the striking of the colony’s own currency. The process was given an immediate infusion with the help of 40,000 Spanish dollars that the British government purchased through the East India Company.

The centers of these dollars were punched, leaving and outer ring (Holey Dollar) and a center piece (Dump). Both were counter stamped with the name of the colony and their new monetary values — five shillings for the Holey Dollar and fifteen pence for the Dump. They remained in official circulation until 1829.

Holey Dollar and Dump Silver Coin Designs and Specifications

Both silver coins in the 200th anniversary set feature reverse designs that replicate their original counterparts. On the Holey Dollar, inscriptions of "DEI GRATIA," "1778" and "CAROLUS III" are placed on the outer edge while "NEW SOUTH WALES" and "1813" are along the inner edge.

The reverse of the Dump is an image of a crown in the center. Inscribed around the design is "NEW SOUTH WALES" and "1813."

Found on the obverse of both silver coins is the contemporary effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley. Obverse inscriptions include "ELIZABETH II," "AUSTRALIA," "2013" and the denomination — "1 DOLLAR" for the Holey Dollar and "25 CENTS" for the Dump.

Each coin is in proof quality with the Holey Dollar composed of 0.8178 ounces of silver and the Dump containing 0.19 ounces of silver. The Holey Dollar has a diameter of 40.60 mm and a gross weight of 25.188 grams. The Dump has a diameter of 17.60 mm with a gross weight of 5.947 grams. Both coins have a maximum thickness of 4.00 mm.

The Perth Mint places the two proof silver coins inside a black display case, and includes a numbered certificate of authenticity along with an illustrated shipper.

Those interested in obtaining a 2013 Holey Dollar and Dump Silver Proof Coin Sets may do so directly from the Perth Mint of Australia at www.perthmint.com.au. They are available now for AUS $108.18, or US $113.27. The price may change daily due to fluctuations in the silver market. An affiliate link to the Perth’s website follows:

Ad Banner to Perth Mint Website for New Coin Releases