Australian Decimal Coinage Appraisal

1968 Australia 2 Cents Coin

This is a 1968 Australian 2-cent coin, featuring the obverse design of Queen Elizabeth II. The coin is composed of 97% copper, 2.5% zinc, and 0.5% tin, weighing approximately 5.18 grams with a diameter of 21.59 mm and a plain edge. The obverse depicts the second official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, known as the Arnold Machin portrait, facing right. She is shown wearing the 'Girls of Great Britain and Ireland' Tiara. Surrounding the effigy is the legend 'ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 1968'. Though the reverse is not visible, it typically features a frilled-neck lizard designed by Stuart Devlin. Regarding its condition, the coin displays a moderate brownish patina consistent with circulated bronze coinage of this era. There are visible surface abrasions, minor contact marks, and softening of the finer details in the hair and crown, suggesting it has seen extensive circulation. There are no signs of major corrosion or green verdigris, but the field shows typical micro-scratches. This specimen was minted in the Canberra Royal Australian Mint and is a staple of Australia's post-decimal currency system introduced in 1966.