Mint Coins | Australia's First Television Broadcast 70th Anniversary 2026 50c Coloured Silver Proof Coin

The Royal Australian Mint celebrates 70 years of Australian television broadcasting with this 2026 50c Coloured Silver Proof Coin.

Australian television flickered to life on 16 September 1956, just in time for the Melbourne Olympic Games, when Bruce Gyngell famously greeted viewers with "Good evening and welcome to television." In its early black-and-white years, families gathered around bulky sets for newsreels, variety hours and children's programs that quickly became household favourites. The arrival of colour in 1975 transformed the viewing experience, ushering in iconic shows like Countdown. Through the decades, programs such as Neighbours, Play School and Four Corners helped shape national conversations and cultural identity.

The coin's reverse features an amazing design that includes over 45 different symbols and elements representing the vast diversity of Australian television over the last 70 years, overlaid with stylised 'test pattern' colours. The obverse features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III designed by Daniel Thorne. Struck to the Mint's renowned proof quality, the encapsulated coin is presented in a display case with certificate of authenticity and outer carton.

Product Details -

Metal Content: 99.9% Silver

Fineness: 99.9%

Monetary Denomination: AUD $0.50

Gross Weight: 18.24g

Diameter: 31.51mm

Maximum Mintage: 7,000