Why $1 coin could be worth thousands
A rare “Mob of Roos” $1 coin minted nearly two decades ago could pocket you about $2000 due to a unique defect.
The misshapen $1 coin is one of a reported 5.8 million coins shared into circulation in 2005 following the unusual printing error.
The off-centre coin has the “AUST” in Australia missing from one side and the ears of three kangaroos seemingly cut off on the other side, leaving a crescent-shaped pattern.
It’s understood the planchet, the plain metal disk that the coins were printed on, was fed into the coin press around 2 to 3cm off-centre, leaving the coin with a number of unique features.
Likely as a result of the misplaced collar die, which delivers the design, the late Queen Elizabeth II also suffered a small tear shape chip on her portrait.
There is no indication as to how the coin managed to avoid quality control at the Royal Australian Mint and enter circulation, but those wishing to purchase the coin will have to fork out a pretty penny to secure one.
Geelong goldsmith Stuart Devlin AO is credited with the Mob of Roos coin design as well as the designs of coins for more than 30 other countries.
One of the rare $1 coins is listed for $1850 on eBay.
