2026 Perth Mint First Gold Rush 175th Anniversary 1/4oz Gold Proof Coin
⛏️ 2026 Perth Mint First Gold Rush 175th Anniversary 1/4oz Gold Proof Coin
Commemorative Issue | 1/4oz Gold | 99.99% Pure Gold | Proof Finish
Commemorate a defining moment in Australian history with this 1/4oz gold proof coin marking the 175th anniversary of Australia’s First Gold Rush. Struck from 99.99% pure gold by the Perth Mint, this prestigious release honours the discovery at Ophir in 1851, an event that transformed the nation’s economy, population, and identity.
📖 Story / Theme
In 1851, Edward Hargraves’ discovery of gold at Ophir in New South Wales ignited Australia’s first official gold rush. This historic event drew thousands seeking fortune, accelerating population growth, infrastructure development, and shaping the nation’s multicultural identity.
The 175th anniversary in 2026 marks this transformative chapter in Australia’s history, celebrating the spirit of opportunity and progress that defined the gold rush era.
🎨 Design Description
The reverse features a central map of Australia with a highlighted point at Ophir, symbolising the birthplace of the gold rush. The inscription “175” marks the anniversary milestone.
Behind the map, crossed shovel and pickaxe motifs represent gold mining heritage. Surrounding elements depict life on the goldfields, including a lantern, pitched tent, wheelbarrow filled with alluvium, a hand panning for gold, a bucket, and a cradle box set on rugged terrain. The design also includes the inscription “AUSTRALIA’S FIRST GOLD RUSH”, the 2026 year-date, and The Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark.
The obverse, designed by Dan Thorne, confirms its status as Australian legal tender
💎 Collector Appeal
Low mintage gold proof coins tied to major historical events hold strong long-term value. With just 500 pieces worldwide, this anniversary issue offers rarity, historical significance, and premium craftsmanship. Ideal for collectors of Australian heritage and gold numismatics, it stands as a prestigious centrepiece.
✨ Key Features
⛏️ Australia’s First Gold Rush 175th Anniversary theme
🎨 Premium proof finish
🏛️ Struck by the Perth Mint
🇦🇺 Australian legal tender ($25)
🌍 Limited mintage: 500
📜 Includes Certificate of Authenticity
🎁 Presentation packaging
📋 Specifications
| Year | 2026 |
| Mint | Perth Mint |
| Series | Australia’s First Gold Rush |
| Metal | Gold |
| Weight | 1/4oz |
| Purity | 99.99% |
| Finish | Proof |
| Mintage | 500 |
| Legal Tender | Australia ($25) |
| Packaging | Presentation packaging with COA |
| SKU | CG26PMGFAPFQZBX01 |
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