2016 $1 First Mints "M" Melbourne Counterstamp
 
Throughout the 19th century, Australian currency was an assortment of foreign coins, promissory notes and rum trades. The gold rush of this era became a pivotal event for Australian society, assisting in the development of both a form of currency and a unique identity.

The Adelaide Assay Office was established in 1852, and in its short life produced gold ingots and Australia’s first gold coin, the Adelaide Pound. Official branches of the Royal Mint opened in Sydney (1855), Melbourne (1872) and Perth (1899), producing sovereigns and other pre-decimal coins.

The Royal Australian Mint opened in 1965, and superseded other Australian mints to become the sole producer of the country’s decimal coins. For several years now, a highlight in visiting the Royal Australian Mint has been the gallery press. Here visitors can strike their own coin which celebrates an event or tradition of national significance.

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