2025 Australia 225th Australian Proclamation Pillar Dollar 1oz Silver Proof Coin

The Perth Mint commemorates the 225th Anniversary of Australian Proclamation Coins with the Pillar Dollar 2025 1oz Silver Proof Coin. These coins, linked to Governor King’s 1800 edict addressing a currency crisis afflicting the colony of New South Wales, became significant in Australia’s early monetary history. To address ongoing shortages, Governor Macquarie brought 40,000 Spanish reales into the colony, modifying them by creating “holey dollars” (outer rings) and “dumps” (centres). This innovative process let to the first currency minted in Australia.

The coin’s reverse pays homage to the Spanish Pillar Dollar, also known as a peso, or a ‘piece of eight’. Under the inscription ‘VTRAQUE’ (both are one), the coin portrays the Spanish Crown and two hemispheres representing the Old World and the New World. These elements are surrounded by representations of the Pillars of Hercules, both draped in spiralling banners displaying the words ‘PLVS VLTRA’ (more beyond). It has been suggested that the s- shaped configuration of the banners around the columns explain the origin of the ‘$’ sign. Included in the design is a unique ‘Mo’ mintmark, indicating the coin’s origin from Mexico City. This design element pays homage to the tradition of Spanish Empire coins bearing distinct mintmarks signifying their minting location. Also on the reverse is the 2025 year-date.

Accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity, the coin is housed in a presentation case and 225ᵗʰ anniversary illustrated shipper.