In the lead-up to the launch of the Centenary of Canberra program, Parliamentary Secretary to The Treasurer The Hon Bernie Ripoll MP and ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher today announced the production of two commemorative coins which will celebrate the Centenary of Canberra in 2013.
The two coins are being designed and made by the Royal Australian Mint, which is responsible for producing all of Australia's circulating coins.
One of the coins will be a commemorative circulating 20 cent coin where the vision and ambition of Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin's plans will be immediately recognisable in the coin's design and assist in ensuring the centenary celebrations reach all Australians.
"All of our nation's most historic moments have been commemorated in coin form, and these coins will become an important part of retelling the history of Canberra to future generations," said Mr Ripoll.
"Each Australian has a link to the nation's capital, and celebrating the Centenary in coin form will help put the celebration in the pockets of every Australian."
The second coin will be a special silver $5 collectible coin featuring the Canberra skyline presented against an artistic impression of that same site one hundred years ago.
"It's amazing to see the original landscape of Canberra depicted on a coin, and to see how precisely it matches what you see today," the Chief Minister said.
"This coin marks 100 years since the naming of Canberra, our national capital. I hope many Australians will take the opportunity to visit Canberra during our Centenary celebrations, but it will be great to see this coin spread the Centenary story around the nation."
The coin designs are being developed by the Royal Australian Mint in collaboration with the Centenary of Canberra team and will be either seen in public circulation or for sale early 2013.
31 August 2012