Australian Florins

1946 Australian Silver Florin

50% Silver
1946 was the first year for the new 50% silver florins. Many experiments were carried out to find a alloy suitable for coinage by the Royal Mint in the 1920's when they finally settled on the quaternary alloy, known as Q-metal, it is only natural that Australia adopted this 20 years later. Since the coins had a much higher copper content the coins (blanks) were pickled in a light acid solution to provide a thin layer of silver in order to provide the same look as the old alloy. When this layer wears off through circulation the rather unattractive yellowish alloy is exposed.
In order to compensate for the lighter metals used in the new alloy the coins are minutely thicker.

1946 Australian Silver Florin
Mintage
23,222,000

Collectors should consider acquiring most of the King George VI series in Choice Uncirculated or better coins, these are still affordable with the greatest possible upside. The George VI obverse is very difficult to grade, the rounded features, lower relief and the large variation to the degree in which this design is struck all add up quite a challenge.

Points to consider when grading the obverse are:
  • the King's eyebrow;
  • the top of the ear;
  • definition in the hair;
  • the sharpness of details on the denticles and lettering;
  • the rim for dents and nicks;
  • A weak strike will show in the hair, ear, eye, mouth and nose.

Specifications
Composition: 50% Silver
40% Copper
5% Nickel
5% Zinc
Silver Content: 0.1818 oz
Edge: Reeded
Weight: 11.31 grams
Size: 28.5 mm
Obverse: Thomas H Paget
Reverse: George Kruger Gray

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