Mintage:2 KnownReverse Designer:W. H. J. BlakemoreObverse Designer:Sir E. B. MacKennelSize:24mmWeight:5.66gEdge:ReededComposition:50% Silver 40% Copper 5% Nickel 5% Zinc
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The 1918-M Pattern Shilling is an exceptionally rare 50% silver type issued by the Melbourne
Mint. The total number of pieces created is unknown however two pieces are currently know to exist. The obverse features an effigy of George V just as one would find on the standard
1918 Shilling. The reverse is also mostly typical however it has been
slightly modified to include two large dots on either side of the arrows that point toward the dates (see image below).
Large dots on either side of the arrows that point toward the dates on the 1918-M Pattern Shilling.
The high prices of silver at the conclusion of the First World War led Australia to consider altering the metal compositions
of its silver pieces. The British had already abandoned their sterling standard and had adopted an alloy of 50% silver and
50% copper.
(John Sharples, 1985)
This pattern appears to be one of the early experiments with a similar alloy for Australia. Despite the initial intention
the change was not implemented.
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