10 Cents - Elizabeth II (2nd Portrait; Fine Silver Proof)

The Australian 10-cent piece was first introduced in 1966 as part of the country’s transition to decimal currency, replacing the pre-decimal shilling. This 2006 fine silver proof edition was issued as a commemorative specimen for collectors, marking the fortieth anniversary of the decimal system. The reverse side features the iconic lyrebird, an illustration by Stuart Devlin, which has remained the stable design element of the coin since its inception, celebrating Australian wildlife through precise, elegant line work.

The obverse of this coin showcases the second effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin. While the standard circulating coinage eventually transitioned to later portraits, this specific proof issue utilizes the refined Machin design to maintain a sense of historical continuity with the mid-decimal era. Collectors highly value these proof strikes for their mirror-like fields and frosted relief, which highlight the intricate detail of both Devlin’s lyrebird and the craftsmanship involved in high-quality minting processes.