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Australian Postal Numismatic Covers

1994 50c UNC

International Year of the Family

The theme of the Year is "Family; resources and responsibilities in a changing world". The Royal Australian Mint chose to celebrate with a commemorative 50c for a change.
The obverse features Raphael Maklouf effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, and the denomination of 50c and the International Year of the Family logo.




Most of these covers have the 1994 "Wide Date" version of the 50c coin, a sought after variety. Found and researched by Dennis Hughes, only 15 - 20 % are thought to be of this type, of which most either went into circulation or these PNC's.. For a period many dealers were taking the coin out of the set to sell as a specimen Unc coin on its own, thereby asking a much higher price than the cover itself demands. For some reason the price differential continues to exist.


A total of 148,393 packs consisting of a specimen quality 1994 Year of the Family 50 cent coin and a 45 cent Year of the Family Postage Stamp were issued by Australia Post and the Royal Australian Mint, Canberra on 14th April, 1994. The Uncirculated quality coin is mounted on a colour card Stylised family gathering with frosted background was crafted by Carolyn Rosser.
The card and coin come in a first day cover envelope. The stamps are canceled with the postmark :
'FIRST DAY OF ISSUE - 14 APRIL 1994 CANBERRA ACT 2601'

Nominal Specifications
Denomination: 50 Cents
Metal: Copper-Nickel
Mass: 15.55 grams
Diameter: 31.5 mm
Reverse: Carolyn Rosser
Obverse: Raphael Maklouf


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