The Royal Australian Mint has unveiled a new series of 50-cent coins celebrating the poetry of Dorothea Mackellar, including a beautiful tribute to her iconic poem, My Country.
Etched into the hearts of Australians for generations, Mackellar’s words “I love a sunburnt country, a land of sweeping plains” embody the beauty, resilience and spirit of the nation. Now, her timeless verses are brought to life in this exquisite coin series, a fitting tribute to her enduring poetic legacy.
Officially launching at the Dorothea Mackellar Centre in Gunnedah on Thursday (13 March), the collection brings three of her most beloved poems – Dawn, My Country and The Colours of Light – to life.
Royal Australian Mint Executive Manager Sales, Marketing and Innovation, Jennifer Sullivan said the collection paid tribute to Mackellar’s ability to capture Australia’s landscapes and spirit in verse.
“Dorothea Mackellar’s poetry continues to resonate with Australians of all generations. Her words evoke the essence of this land, its vastness, resilience and natural beauty,” said Ms Sullivan.
“Through this coin series, we hope to celebrate her enduring influence and provide collectors with a meaningful connection to her legacy.”
The first coin, inspired by Dawn, captures the tranquil beauty of the road to Gunnedah, a place Mackellar held dear. The second coin brings to life My Country, her most iconic work – a love letter to a land of striking contrasts, from sunlit beaches to storm swept plains.
The final coin, inspired by The Colours of Light, is a vivid tribute to Mackellar’s lyrical mastery of colour and movement, featuring a peacock and radiant flora.
Gunnedah Shire Mayor, Colleen Fuller said Gunnedah was proud of its connection with Dorothea Mackellar.
“It is wonderful this much-loved poet will be commemorated with these coins, and we are thrilled they are being launched in Gunnedah.
“We welcome the Royal Australian Mint and visitors to our Shire, and celebrate yet another chapter in Dorothea Mackellar’s life,” Mayor Fuller said.
Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society President, Pip Murray, welcomed the release of the series, highlighting its significance to Gunnedah and beyond.
“We are excited to be part of the release of the Dorothea Mackellar coin series. We know from Dorothea’s diaries that Gunnedah held a special place in her heart and her poetry so it is fitting that the launch is being held here,” Mrs Murray said.
Available as a three-coin collection or individually, they offer poetry lovers and collectors a chance to hold a piece of Australia’s cultural heritage.
The Dorothea Mackellar three-coin series will be available for purchase from the Royal Australian Mint from 13 March for $20 each for individual coins or $50 for the boxed set.
It can be purchased through the following channels:
- Mint Contact Centre on 1300 652 020
- The Mint Shop, Denison Street, Deakin
- The Mint’s online shop at www.eshop.ramint.gov.au
- From participating authorised distributors.
