The Proof 1930 Penny is the cornerstone of Australia’s rare coin industry. Worth in excess of $1.5 million, it is Australia’s most valuable coin and one of the most valuable copper coins in the world.
There’s still a small chance of finding a 1930 Penny in grandma’s old button jar or down the back of her sofa, but don’t bother looking for a Proof 1930 Penny. Only six of them were ever struck, and they’re all accounted for.
And if you’re thinking of buying one, expect to write a cheque with seven figures on it.
The Proof 1930 Penny was especially struck at the Melbourne Mint as a mini work-of-art. It was intended to be a showpiece, a perfect example of the 1930 Penny, and that’s exactly what it is.
The blanks used to strike the coins were polished to a mirror finish. The dies were especially treated to ensure a crisp and highly detailed striking. The result is a coin that is visually stunning – something to look at but definitely never to touch.
Of the six 1930 Pennies that were struck to proof quality, one is held by the British Museum, a second by the Museum of Victoria, and a third by the Art Gallery of South Australia.
The remaining three coins are held with Coinworks clients.