This
commemorative
fifty cent coin is one piece from the 2002 issue of the Royal Australian Mint's six coin year sets. This particular set
was entitled The Year of the Outback and as the name suggests the series pays tribute to the Australian outback and the way
in which it has contributed to defining Australia as a nation. The outback, also sometimes referred to as the red centre,
really is the heart of Australia.This fifty cent dodecagonal coin is joined in the set by an additional five coins each of
different denominations with the 1 dollar and 50 cent coins featuring special design depicting the outback. The denominations
of the coins to complete the set are 5c, 10c, 20c, $1 and $2. There was also a Finale Hologram coin that was released separately
at the end of the same year.
The reverse of this coin was designed by Wojciech Pietranik. In the
centre and filling the majority of the coin is a windmill which are scattered all across the Australian outback and make
the ideal icon. They represent perseverance in a harsh environment and are a fitting and recognisable symbol both for what
the outback gives to the nation as well as mans brave exploration of the terrain. The only legend on this side of the coin
is the denomination 50 CENTS. The obverse of the coin bears Ian Rank-Broadley's
portrait of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and surrounding this is the
legend
ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 2002. The six coins that make up the set were presented in a sealed blue and orange cardboard
wallet and includes a descriptive card pertaining to the set. Writing on the outer box includes Year of the Outback 2002 and
Proof.
The term outback is used to describe the remote and vast amounts of arid land that covers large parts of the continent
of Australia. The terrain is hostile and tough and due to the poor soil and sporadic rainfall inhabitants of the outback
are few and far between. The land in this part of the country is useful mainly for mining industries as well as some tourism
and agriculture.
(Wikipedia, 2013)
The outback has become representative of Australia and the vibrancy that it offers contributes to the Australian ethos.
The Year of the Outback series honors the contribution the outback has provided to Australia national identity as well as
those people who have persevered through harsh environments for the good of the nation. In more ways than one, for many the
outback is the heart of Australia.
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