Australia’s First Gold Rush

175th Anniversary

2026 1oz Silver Proof Gilded Coin

Commemorating the 175th Anniversary of the First Gold Rush that started in 1851 with the discovery of gold at Ophir in New South Wales.

Key features:

  • 24-carat gold gilded map, pick and spade
  • Depiction in silver of gold digging equipment
  • A fitting gift for gold prospectors and fossickers

Product Information:

  • Item Code                  26Y28CAA
  • Barcode                    9327025063522
  • Mintage    5,000
  • Release Date           5 May 2026

In 1851, the discovery of gold at Ophir in New South Wales by Edward Hargraves sparked Australia's first official gold rush, leading to a wave of migration and rapid development across the country. Thousands of people arrived in search of fortune, driving population growth, infrastructure expansion, and profound social change. The gold rush played a key role in shaping Australia's multicultural identity and economic foundations. In 2026, the nation will celebrate the 175th anniversary of this landmark moment in its history.

Design

The coin’s reverse features a map of Australia in the centre with a dot at Ophir—symbolising the birthplace of the nation’s first gold rush and the inscription ‘175’ representing the 175th anniversary. Behind the map, a crossed shovel and pickaxe form a motif widely recognised as a symbol of Australia’s gold rush. The design includes iconic elements of gold panning life including a lantern, a pitched tent, a wheelbarrow filled with alluvium, a hand panning for gold, a bucket, and a cradle box pictured on rugged terrain. The outer rim, map, shovel and pickaxe are all gilded in 24-carat gold.

Surrounding the design is the inscription “AUSTRALIA’S FIRST GOLD RUSH”, accompanied by a stylised border, the 2026 year-date, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

Technical Specifications

Year Date 2026
Silver Content (Troy oz) 1
Monetary Denomination (AUD) 1
Finess (% purity) 99.99
Minimum Gross Weight (g) 31.107
Maximum Diameter (mm) 40.90
Maximum Thickness (mm) 3.50
Maximum Mintage 5,000
Issue Limit 4,500
Legal Tender Australian
Reverse Designer Lucas Bowers
Effigy Designer Dan Thorne

 

SKU 26Y28CAA
Barcode # 9327025063522
Brand Perth Mint
Shipping Weight 0.200 kg
Unit Of Measure each