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 private collectors. The last time one changed hands, in 2005, was sold for $620,000. This is now considered a bargain, with current valuation put at over $1 million.