To commemorate the 175th Anniversary of Australia’s First Gold Rush, The Perth Mint is pleased to present this 1oz silver proof coin with gold gilding. In 1851, the discovery of gold at Ophir in New South Wales by Edward Hargraves sparked Australia's first official gold rush, leading to a wave of migration and rapid development across the country. Thousands of people arrived in search of fortune, driving population growth, infrastructure expansion, and profound social change.

The gold rush played a key role in shaping Australia's multicultural identity and economic foundations. In 2026, the nation will celebrate the 175th anniversary of this landmark moment in its history. The coin’s reverse features a map of Australia in the centre with a dot at Ophir—symbolising the birthplace of the nation’s first gold rush and the inscription ‘175’ representing the 175th anniversary. Behind the map, a crossed shovel and pickaxe form a motif widely recognised as a symbol of Australia’s gold rush. The design includes iconic elements of gold panning life including a lantern, a pitched tent, a wheelbarrow filled with alluvium, a hand panning for gold, a bucket, and a cradle box pictured on rugged terrain.

The outer rim, map, shovel and pickaxe are all gilded in 24-carat gold. Surrounding the design is the inscription “AUSTRALIA’S FIRST GOLD RUSH”, accompanied by a stylised border, the 2026 year-date, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

2026 1oz Australia's First Gold Rush 175th Anniversary Silver Proof Gilded Coin

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