2018 $1 AlBr 'S' Counterstamp Australias Convict Era - Rascals and Ratbags

2018 $1 AlBr 'S' Counterstamp Australias Convict Era - Rascals and Ratbags

In 2018 we commemorate the 80 years of Australia’s convict era. Coin collectors, descendants of convicts, and history buffs in Sydney and surrounds will have the opportunity to remember our convict past as the travelling press attends the 2018 Sydney Royal Easter Show. With an exclusive ‘S’ for Sydney counterstamp, this coin will be a sought-after variant to our popular visitor press coin.

HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE
In the past Australians were reluctant to acknowledge their convict ancestors, but nowadays to be descended from a convict is considered a badge of honour. Almost 20 per cent of Australians are currently descended from the convicts who were transported to Australia in the 80 year period between 1788 and 1868.
The convicts were a mixed bunch. Some were hardened criminals and scoundrels, some were political prisoners, and some were simply victims of desperate poverty. Many remained in Australia after gaining their freedom, to build new lives. This significant period of migration changed the face of Australia forever and helped create a nation of mixed heritage.
Some convicts achieved remarkable fame and fortune, such as Esther Abrahams Johnston. Their stories have entered Australia’s folklore and led to the creation of books, films and artworks that have influenced our understanding of this challenging period of history.

FEATURES AND DESIGN
• Commemorating Australia’s convict era and the varied convict characters who shaped our history
• Coin’s reverse features an artistic depiction of a tree with a canopy representing Australia, with the convict symbols of the Broad Arrow and chains at its roots
• ‘S’ for Sydney counterstamp, exclusive to the 2018 Sydney Royal Easter Show
• Packaging features an illustration and story of convict Esther Abrahams Johnston who became a New South Wales ‘First Lady’
• Coin’s obverse features Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II effigy sculpted by Ian Rank-Broadley
• Australian legal tender