225th Anniversary of Australian Proclamation Coins

Pillar Dollar

2025 1/4oz Gold Proof Coin

The Perth Mint commemorates the 225th Anniversary of Australian Proclamation Coins with the Pillar Dollar 2025 1/4oz Gold Proof Coin. These coins, linked to Governor King’s 1800 edict addressing a currency crisis afflicting the colony of New South Wales, became significant in Australia's early monetary history. To address ongoing shortages, Governor Macquarie brought 40,000 Spanish reales into the colony, modifying them by creating "holey dollars" (outer rings) and "dumps" (centres). This innovative process let to the first currency minted in Australia.

Key features:

• Proof quality 99.99% pure gold
• 2025 proclamation coin – pillar dollar design
• Limited mintage – 750
• Australian legal tender
• Numbered certificate of authenticity
• Presentation packaging

Product Information:

• Item Code                  25V82FAA
• Barcode                    9327025061788
• Maximum Mintage    750
• Release Date           6 May 2025

Signature series

The Australian proclamation coins – Pillar Dollar - is linked to Governor King’s 1800 edict addressing a currency crisis afflicting the colony of New South Wales, became significant in Australia's early monetary history.

Design

The coin’s reverse pays homage to the Spanish Pillar Dollar, also known as a peso, or a ‘piece of eight’. Under the inscription ‘VTRAQUE’ (both are one), the coin portrays the Spanish Crown and two hemispheres representing the Old World and the New World. These elements are surrounded by representations of the Pillars of Hercules, both draped in spiraling banners displaying the words ‘PLVS VLTRA’ (more beyond). It has been suggested that the s-shaped configuration of the banners around the columns explain the origin of the ‘$’ sign. Included in the design is a unique ‘Mo’ mintmark, indicating the coin's origin from Mexico City. This design element pays homage to the tradition of Spanish Empire coins bearing distinct mintmarks signifying their minting location. Also on the reverse is the 2025 year-date.

Presentation

Accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity, the coin is housed in a presentation case and 225th anniversary illustrated shipper.

Technical Specifications