2 Dollars - Elizabeth II (4th Portrait) - Rugby World Cup 2019
This commemorative 2 Dollar coin was issued in 2019 to celebrate Australia’s participation in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, held in Japan. It was released by the Royal Australian Mint in collaboration with Woolworths, making its way into circulation via supermarket checkouts.
Key Features:
Location: Australia
Issuing Company: Woolworths
Type: Circulating Commemorative Coin
Year of Issue: 2019
Value: 2 Australian Dollars (2 AUD = 1.21 EUR)
Currency: Australian Dollar (in use since 1966)
Composition: Aluminium Bronze (92% Copper, 6% Aluminium, 2% Nickel, Pad Printed)
Weight: 6.6 g
Diameter: 20.5 mm
Thickness: 3.2 mm
Shape: Round
Technique: Milled, Coloured
Orientation: Medal alignment (↑↑)
Mintage: 2,000,000 coins
Commemorative Issue:
The coin marks the Rugby World Cup 2019, specifically recognizing Australia’s national rugby team, the Wallabies.
Obverse:
The obverse side of the coin features the 4th portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. The Queen is depicted facing right, wearing the famous "Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara." The inscription includes "ELIZABETH II," "AUSTRALIA 2019," and "IRB" (International Rugby Board).
Designer: Ian Rank-Broadley
Script: Latin
Reverse:
The reverse side showcases a wallaby holding a rugby ball, positioned next to a five-pointed star, which is encircled by a green, yellow, and blue ring. Surrounding this are four seven-pointed stars. The denomination, "TWO DOLLARS," and "WALLABIES AUSTRALIA" are also inscribed on this side.
Script: Latin
Lettering: TWO DOLLARS, WALLABIES AUSTRALIA
Edge:
The edge is a mix of four longer smooth segments alternating with four reeded segments (five grooves each).
Mintage Information:
The total mintage for this coin was announced to be 2,000,000 by the Royal Australian Mint. It was distributed in two forms:
Circulating Coin: Released through Woolworths at face value, with 1,830,000 coins in circulation.
BU Coincard: 170,000 coins were released in uncirculated (BU) condition for $3 each, sold at supermarket service desks.
Interesting Facts:
This was a highly anticipated release for rugby fans, coming out on September 18, 2019.
The coin is available in two varieties, with a higher value in UNC condition for collectors.
It commemorates the Wallabies' journey to the Rugby World Cup in Japan, making it a special piece for both sports and coin collectors alike.