The 1953 Florin was struck at the Melbourne Mint with a mintage
of 12,658,000. The reverse features the Kruger Gray Coat of Arms design
which remained in use until the introduction of decimal
currency. The obverse features Mary Gillick's effigy of Her Majesty Queen
Elizabeth II.
In addition to the typical 'Small Denticles' 1953 Florin, this 'Large Denticles' variety represents a small percentage
of the total population. This second type features notably larger denticles (the small tooth-like serrations) on the borders
of the reverse. It appears that the 1953 large denticle variety came
from a single die which would explain its overall scarcity. Naturally, this variety demands a premium over the very affordable
small denticle variety.
Large denticles on a 1953 Florin.
Small denticles on a 1953 Florin.
This year was the first to omit the traditional 'F.D' (Defender of the Faith) inscription from the obverse legend. This
move attracted substantial controversy with groups including 'The United Protestant's Association' and a number of Australian
Bishops leading protests against the change. Commonwealth authorities initially defended their decision arguing that the
changes were for simplicity sake and they did not intend to cause any disrespect or make a political message. Both the standard
issue 1953 and 1954 Florin feature the 'godless' legend but in 1954 the Authorities bowed to the pressure and included 'F.D'
on the Royal Visit commemorative Florin and all Florins since.
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