A New Rush: The Rise of Aussie Coin Collecting in 2025

Australians have always had a soft spot for collecting, but 2025 has ushered in a full-blown numismatic revival. With economic uncertainty nudging people toward tangible assets and nostalgia playing its part, rare Australian coins are commanding eye-watering prices at auctions, online marketplaces, and even among casual collectors.

From misprints and low-mintage runs to commemorative coins released during significant moments in Australia’s history, demand is surging. But here’s the kicker—some of the most valuable coins aren’t centuries old. In fact, some are from as recent as the 2000s.

If you’ve ever handled a $1 coin or found a strange-looking 50c piece in your wallet, keep reading. This may just be the most profitable treasure hunt of your life.

1. 2000 "Mule" Dollar Coin — The One-Dollar Jackpot

Let’s start with a coin that’s considered the holy grail of modern Australian coin errors—the 2000 $1 "mule" coin. This coin was minted using the wrong die, resulting in a double rim around Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait.

How to spot it:

The queen's image has a thicker, double rim (compared to other $1 coins).

The size and shape are standard, but visually, the error is striking once noticed.

Estimated value in 2025: Up to $4,500 in uncirculated condition, with circulated coins still selling for $400–$1,200 depending on wear.

2. 1966 Wavy “2” 20c Coin — Wave Hello to Thousands

The 1966 20c coin had several variations, but the “wavy baseline 2” is the one collectors are after.

This subtle die error causes the bottom of the number "2" in "20" to have a wave-like curl, rather than being flat.

Why it’s valuable: It’s from the first year Australia transitioned to decimal currency. Combine that with a limited run of this error and it becomes gold to collectors.

Current value: $500–$3,000 depending on condition.

3. 2010 Upset 50c Coin — Heads Literally Off

In numismatics, an “upset” error refers to a misalignment between the obverse and reverse sides of a coin. For the 2010 50c coin, some were minted with the queen’s head rotated 30 to 90 degrees off-axis from the back.

Hold one of these up and rotate—if the two sides don’t align perfectly, you may be holding a mini jackpot.

Estimated value: $100 to $1,500.

4. 2013 Coronation Purple Stripe $2 Coin — The Royal Rarity

Issued to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, this coin was the first Australian coin to feature coloured printing.

But early runs were limited—and most have disappeared into private collections.

Key features:

A purple ring on the reverse around the crown.

Minted in limited numbers and now increasingly scarce.

Current market value: $80–$300 for mint condition. Uncirculated rolls can fetch over $2,000.

5. 1985 10c Coin — The Vanishing Act

Oddly enough, one of the rarest Australian decimal coins is the 1985 10c coin—not due to an error, but because of its extremely low mintage. While it was circulated, far fewer were minted that year, making it a unicorn among 10c pieces.

How rare is it? Many collectors take years to find one in top condition.

Today’s value: $15–$150 depending on wear.

6. 1923 Halfpenny — Australia's King of Rarity

Going back to pre-decimal currency, the 1923 halfpenny is considered one of the rarest Australian coins ever issued.

Why? There were fewer than 15,000 coins officially struck that year, and surviving examples are often heavily worn.

Auction results in 2025: Up to $45,000 for extremely fine specimens. Even a worn example can still sell for $3,000–$10,000.

7. 1930 Penny — The Most Famous Coin in Aussie History

No list would be complete without the legendary 1930 penny. Only about 1,500 were ever made (almost by accident), making it the most fabled—and faked—coin in Australian numismatics.

It’s not just rare; it’s a national icon.

Sales in 2025: Top examples go for $60,000–$100,000+. Even circulated ones bring in over $20,000.

Coin Features to Look For: A Quick Guide

If you're starting out or checking your change drawer, here’s what can increase a coin’s value:

Low mintage year (e.g., 1985, 1990s 5c coins)

Errors or misprints (e.g., double strike, off-center)

Commemorative editions (especially coloured $2 coins)

Historical significance

Excellent condition or uncirculated

Where to Sell or Get Valuations in Australia

Looking to flip a valuable coin? Here’s where to start:

Local coin dealers: Get appraisals and connect with collectors.

Online marketplaces: eBay, Numista, and Downies can yield surprising results.

Coin fairs and expos: Held in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth annually.

PCGS Australia or NGC: For formal grading and authenticity.

What to Avoid: Don’t Fall for These Coin Traps

The surge in demand means scams and counterfeits are also on the rise. Here’s how to stay safe:

Avoid unverified eBay sellers.

Use a magnifying glass or jeweller’s loupe.

Don’t clean coins—it lowers their value.

Beware of “re-strike” or replica coins. These aren’t illegal but aren’t worth much either.

The Bottom Line: Should You Start Coin Hunting?

In 2025, coin collecting isn’t just a nostalgic hobby—it’s a legitimate side hustle and a surprisingly stable store of value. Whether you're holding a misaligned 50c or an ultra-rare 1930 penny, the thrill of discovery is real—and the financial upside could be significant.

And the best part? You don’t need to be an expert to get started. Sometimes all it takes is a closer look at the coins already in your wallet.