This five Dollar Hologram Silver
proof
coin was issued as a
commemorative
piece in order to celebrate the volunteers of Australia. It was released in 2003 and is known as the Finale coin after
a year of
commemorative
coins issued by the Royal Australian Mint each paying tribute to Australia's volunteers and the influence they have had
on Australia's progression and development as a nation. The coin was Australia's third hologram coin in a series of three,
which included what is thought to be the world first double-image hologram coin.
(Royal Australian Mint, 2001)
The Finale Hologram Series consisted of three coins, with the additional two released in 2001 and 2002 to complete years
celebrating the Centenary of the Federation of Australia and The Year of the Outback. All three of the coins featured a hologram
image, which got progressively more impressive as the technology improved over the three years.
The reverse of the coin was designed by Vladimir Gottwald and features
the hologram image in a central oval shape. At the forefront of the image is the face of three ordinary Australian's who
represent diverse community of volunteers that contribute their time and efforts. When the coin is tilted background images
depicting the typical work that volunteers do come to life. Surrounding the hologram is a sculpted pattern of connecting
shapes that represent the community coming together. Surrounding all of this is the
legend
AUSTRALIA'S VOLUNTEERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE. The obverse bears the
Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth with the surrounding
legend
ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 2003 5 DOLLARS. The coin was issued in a plush black presentation case and an outer box that also
included a booklet of information regarding the typical work carried out by volunteers and a Certificate of Authenticity.
The outer box has the writing Finale Coin 2003. This coin had a limited
mintage
of just 15,000 and was highly sought after as soon as it was released.
Volunteers play an important role in any community but Australia seems to have a particularly prominent and dedicated
workforce of individuals willing to dedicate their time for the benefit of the community. Australia as a nation has been
built with a significant amount of help from these unsung heroes who choose to sacrifice their free time, skills and knowledge
in order to help others and to strengthen their community. In 2003 the Royal Australian Mint decided it was time to thank
and celebrate these ordinary individuals who together perform the backbone of Australian society.
(Royal Australian Mint, 2002)
The coins issued look at the people and the work they do such as emergency services, carers, conservationist, charity
workers and surf life guards who truly make a positive difference to the nation of Australia.
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