The 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin: History, Mintage, Value and Collector’s Guide

The 2007 APEC Australia $1 coin is one of the distinctive commemorative one-dollar coins released into Australian circulation during the early twenty-first century. Issued by the Royal Australian Mint, the coin commemorates Australia’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, commonly known as APEC, in 2007.

Rather than featuring the familiar five-kangaroo design normally seen on Australian one-dollar coins, the 2007 issue carries a special APEC-themed reverse. This immediately distinguishes it from standard circulating dollars of the period and has helped make it an interesting piece for collectors building sets of Australian commemorative coins.

Approximately 20.101 million 2007 APEC $1 coins were produced for circulation, making the coin obtainable but still historically significant. Its combination of a recognizable commemorative design, international theme and connection with a major event in Australian diplomatic history gives it enduring appeal among both beginner and experienced numismatists.

Quick Facts About the 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin

The major specifications of the circulating 2007 APEC one-dollar coin are:

Country: Australia
Year: 2007
Denomination: One Dollar
Issuing authority: Royal Australian Mint
Theme: Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum
Circulation mintage: Approximately 20.101 million
Composition: Aluminium bronze
Metal composition: 92% copper, 6% aluminium and 2% nickel
Weight: 9.00 grams
Diameter: 25.00 millimetres
Shape: Circular
Edge: Interrupted milled
Obverse: Queen Elizabeth II
Reverse: APEC Australia commemorative design
Legal tender: Australian $1

These specifications are generally consistent with the physical characteristics of Australia's circulating one-dollar denomination.

Why Australia Issued the APEC $1 Coin

Australia hosted the APEC forum in 2007, with meetings and associated events taking place throughout the year and the major leaders' gathering held in Sydney.

APEC brings together economies from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss economic cooperation, trade, investment and other matters affecting regional development. Hosting such an international meeting represented an important diplomatic occasion for Australia.

Commemorative circulating coins provide governments with a practical way to recognize significant national and international events. Because millions of examples enter everyday circulation, the subject can reach a much wider audience than a limited-edition collector coin.

The 2007 APEC dollar therefore served two purposes. It remained a fully functional Australian one-dollar coin while also providing a permanent numismatic record of the event.

Today, the historical connection adds another layer of interest for collectors. The coin represents not simply Australian currency from 2007 but also a particular moment in Australia's involvement with the wider Asia-Pacific region.

Design of the 2007 APEC $1 Coin

The reverse is the feature that makes the APEC dollar immediately recognizable.

Instead of Stuart Devlin's famous five-kangaroo design used on standard Australian one-dollar coins, the commemorative reverse prominently incorporates the APEC Australia identity. The design includes a stylized star-like emblem associated with the 2007 forum.

The emblem was formed from individual elements representing the participating APEC economies. Its geometric appearance is noticeably different from the wildlife, historical figures and anniversary symbols commonly found on Australian commemorative coins.

The words associated with APEC Australia and the one-dollar denomination complete the design.

The Royal Australian Mint credits the sculpting of the circulating APEC commemorative design to Wojciech Pietranik, an artist whose work appears on numerous Australian commemorative coins.

The comparatively simple composition makes the coin easy to identify, an advantage for people searching through change for Australian commemorative dollars.

The Obverse and Queen Elizabeth II Portrait

The obverse of the 2007 APEC dollar features Queen Elizabeth II, who was Australia's monarch when the coin was issued.

The portrait belongs to the period in which Australian circulating coins carried the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of the Queen. Surrounding inscriptions identify Elizabeth II, Australia and the year 2007.

For collectors, examining the obverse is just as important as inspecting the commemorative reverse. Scratches across the portrait, contact marks in the fields, rim damage and other evidence of circulation can significantly influence the overall condition of a coin.

Examples retaining clean surfaces and strong original lustre are normally more desirable than heavily circulated pieces.

2007 APEC $1 Coin Mintage

Mintage is one of the first statistics collectors usually examine when researching an Australian commemorative coin.

Royal Australian Mint production records show that approximately 20.101 million 2007 APEC $1 coins were produced for circulation.

A mintage exceeding 20 million means the ordinary circulated APEC dollar should not automatically be considered extremely rare. Many examples were distributed throughout Australia and spent years moving through shops, banks, vending machines and private collections.

However, mintage alone does not determine collectibility.

As circulating coins age, particularly attractive pieces become harder to find. Coins may be lost, damaged, permanently stored in collections or heavily worn through repeated handling. Consequently, an excellent uncirculated example can be much less common than an ordinary circulated specimen, even when the original mintage was relatively high.

This distinction is important when discussing the rarity or potential value of the 2007 APEC dollar.

Is the 2007 APEC $1 Coin Rare?

The standard circulating 2007 APEC dollar is generally better described as a collectible commemorative coin rather than an exceptionally rare Australian coin.

With roughly 20.1 million circulation pieces produced, there were enough examples for widespread distribution.

Nevertheless, several factors can make an individual example more desirable.

A coin preserved in near-mint condition may attract stronger collector attention. Genuine major minting errors can also command interest when properly authenticated. Coins preserved in original collector products may have additional appeal depending on presentation and condition.

Collectors should therefore separate the concept of a rare coin from a coin that simply has an unusual design.

Seeing the APEC dollar less frequently in everyday change today does not by itself prove that it is rare. Australian circulation patterns have changed considerably since 2007, and many older commemorative coins have gradually been removed from active circulation by collectors and the public.

How Much Is a 2007 APEC $1 Coin Worth?

The face value of the coin is one Australian dollar, but collector value depends heavily on condition and demand.

A normal example showing substantial circulation wear will usually attract much less collector interest than a sharp, lustrous example that has seen little or no handling.

Important factors influencing value include:

Condition: Coins with minimal wear are generally preferred.

Original lustre: Bright mint surfaces can enhance desirability.

Surface quality: Scratches, dents, stains and heavy contact marks can reduce collector appeal.

Strike quality: Clear details and an attractive strike may make one specimen preferable to another.

Minting errors: Genuine errors can potentially be valuable, although each needs expert evaluation.

Packaging or provenance: Coins preserved in official products may sometimes have advantages over loose circulated pieces.

Market demand: Coin prices can change over time according to collector interest and availability.

Collectors should be cautious when encountering online advertisements claiming extremely high values for ordinary 2007 APEC dollars. Asking prices are not the same as confirmed selling prices.

Condition, authenticity and actual completed sales provide a much more useful indication of market demand.

Understanding Coin Condition

Condition can create a large difference between two coins carrying exactly the same date and design.

A heavily circulated APEC dollar may show flattened high points, numerous scratches and loss of much of its original mint brilliance. Another coin stored carefully shortly after release may retain sharp details and much stronger surfaces.

Collectors commonly describe coins using terms such as circulated, extremely fine, about uncirculated and uncirculated. Professional grading systems can provide even more detailed numerical classifications.

For casual collecting, the most important approach is simply to examine the coin carefully under good lighting.

Look for strong details, minimal marks, clean rims and remaining original lustre.

Avoid polishing or aggressively cleaning the coin in an attempt to improve its appearance. Cleaning can leave fine scratches, alter the natural surface and reduce numismatic desirability.

Mint Errors and Varieties

Mint errors are one area where an otherwise common commemorative coin can become particularly interesting.

Possible errors on Australian circulating coins can include off-centre strikes, clipped planchets, unusual die faults, striking abnormalities or other production-related defects.

However, damage occurring after a coin enters circulation is far more common than genuine minting errors.

Cuts, dents, grinding, chemical exposure, flattened rims and intentional alterations are sometimes incorrectly advertised as rare errors.

Collectors who believe they have discovered an unusual 2007 APEC dollar should compare it carefully with normal specimens. Significant potential errors may benefit from assessment by an experienced numismatist or professional grading service.

A genuine mint error should show evidence that the abnormality occurred during the manufacturing process rather than after circulation.

Why Collectors Like the 2007 APEC Dollar

The APEC dollar has several characteristics that make it appealing.

First, it carries a clearly different reverse from the standard Australian one-dollar design.

Second, it commemorates an identifiable international event held in Australia.

Third, it can still be accessible to beginning collectors. Unlike extremely scarce coins requiring a large budget, circulated commemorative dollars can often provide an affordable introduction to Australian numismatics.

The coin also fits naturally into several different collection themes.

Collectors might include it in a complete Australian one-dollar date set, a collection of circulating commemorative dollars, a Queen Elizabeth II coin collection, a 2007 Australian coin set or a collection focused on political and international events.

This versatility helps explain why older circulating commemoratives continue to attract attention.

How to Store a 2007 APEC $1 Coin

Proper storage is essential if you want to maintain the condition of your coin.

Handle the coin by its edges whenever possible. Touching the flat surfaces can transfer oils and moisture from the skin onto the metal.

Suitable storage choices include coin capsules, archival-quality holders, coin flips and albums manufactured from numismatically safe materials.

Keep coins away from excessive humidity, chemicals and extreme temperature changes.

Collectors should also avoid abrasive cleaning products, metal polish and household chemicals.

Natural toning or minor surface changes caused by age are usually preferable to damage created through improper cleaning.

How to Identify an Authentic 2007 APEC Dollar

A genuine coin should match the standard physical characteristics of an Australian circulating one-dollar coin.

It should measure approximately 25 millimetres in diameter and weigh about 9 grams. The coin should have an aluminium-bronze appearance and interrupted-milled edge.

The reverse should show the APEC Australia commemorative design, while the obverse should carry Queen Elizabeth II and the 2007 date.

When purchasing higher-grade or unusually expensive specimens, collectors should examine the surfaces carefully and buy from reputable numismatic sellers whenever possible.

Authenticity becomes especially important when a seller claims that a coin is a rare variety or valuable minting error.

Collecting the APEC Dollar as Part of an Australian $1 Set

Australia has released numerous circulating commemorative one-dollar coins since the denomination was introduced in 1984.

Building a commemorative dollar collection can therefore provide an interesting way to explore Australian history through coinage.

Collectors can arrange their coins chronologically and observe how designs reflect anniversaries, organizations, national events and cultural themes.

Within such a collection, the 2007 APEC dollar represents Australia's international engagement during the first decade of the twenty-first century.

A particularly enjoyable collecting strategy is to acquire both a circulated example and a higher-quality uncirculated specimen. This allows collectors to compare how circulation affects aluminium-bronze surfaces over time.

Long-Term Collectibility

Predicting future coin prices with certainty is impossible. A high original mintage means the ordinary 2007 APEC dollar should not be treated as a guaranteed high-value investment.

Its strongest qualities are historical relevance, recognizability and accessibility.

Over the long term, superior-condition specimens, genuine errors and well-preserved collector examples may attract more attention than heavily circulated coins.

Collectors interested primarily in investment should consider rarity, condition, market demand and acquisition price rather than assuming every commemorative coin will rise substantially in value.

For many enthusiasts, however, collecting Australian coins is about more than financial return. Each coin represents a small physical record of Australian history.

List of 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin Year 2007 Only (2026 Updated)

The 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin is one of Australia's most recognizable modern commemorative one-dollar coins, released exclusively in 2007 to commemorate Australia's hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Sydney. The reverse design features the official APEC Australia logo, created from 21 boomerangs forming three concentric seven-pointed stars, symbolizing unity and cooperation among APEC member economies. The obverse displays the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley. Struck by the Royal Australian Mint in aluminium bronze, the coin has a mintage of approximately 20.1 million circulation pieces, making it a popular collectible among Australian decimal coin enthusiasts. Circulated examples are commonly available at modest premiums over face value, while Brilliant Uncirculated coins, proof editions, certified Mint State specimens, and genuine mint-error coins command considerably higher prices in today's collector market.

2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin Value List (2026 Updated)

2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin Specifications

Note: The values shown are estimated 2026 Australian retail collector prices. Actual market prices depend on condition, grading, certification, eye appeal, rarity, and collector demand. Official Royal Australian Mint products, high-grade certified examples, and authenticated mint-error coins generally achieve the strongest auction and dealer prices.

Historical Context of the 2007 APEC Summit

The APEC summit in 2007 brought together leaders from 21 member economies to discuss economic growth, cooperation, trade, and investment in the Asia-Pacific region. Hosting the summit was a significant event for Australia, showcasing its commitment to regional collaboration. The summit also led to the implementation of extensive security measures in Sydney, reflecting the event's importance on the global stage.​

Design and Symbolism

Obverse

The obverse of the coin features the fourth portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy was widely used on Australian coins during that period, symbolizing the nation's constitutional monarchy.​

Reverse

The reverse, designed by Vladimir Gottwald, showcases the APEC Australia 2007 logo—a seven-pointed star composed of 21 boomerangs. Each boomerang represents one of the APEC member economies, while the star reflects the Commonwealth Star on the Australian flag, symbolizing unity and cooperation.​

Specifications

• Country: Australia

• Year: 2007

• Denomination: $1

• Composition: Aluminium-bronze (92% copper, 6% aluminium, 2% nickel)

• Weight: 9.00 grams

• Diameter: 25.00 mm

• Edge: Segmented reeding

• Mintage: 20,108,000​

Mintage and Distribution

With over 20 million coins minted, the 2007 APEC $1 coin was widely circulated across Australia. The Royal Australian Mint also released special uncirculated versions in presentation packs and rolls for collectors. These special editions were often distributed to delegates and VIPs attending the summit, adding to their collectible value.​

Collectibility and Value

The coin's value varies based on its condition:​

• Uncirculated (UNC): Approximately $2.21

• Extremely Fine (XF): Approximately $1.96

• Very Fine (VF): Approximately $1.85

• Fine (F): Approximately $1.74

• Very Good (VG): Approximately $1.69

• Good (G): Approximately $1.67

• Poor (PR): Approximately $1.66​

Collectors often seek the uncirculated versions, especially those in original packaging, due to their pristine condition and limited availability.​

Significance in Australian Numismatics

The 2007 APEC $1 coin holds a special place in Australian numismatics for several reasons:​

1. Commemorative Value: It marks Australia's role in hosting a significant international summit.

2. Unique Design: The incorporation of boomerangs and the seven-pointed star offers a distinctive aesthetic.

3. Limited Editions: Special releases for delegates and collectors add to its desirability.​

Tips for Collectors

• Authentication: Ensure the coin is genuine, especially when purchasing online.

• Condition: Aim for uncirculated versions for higher value and better preservation.

• Packaging: Original packaging can enhance the coin's value.

• Storage: Store coins in a cool, dry place, preferably in protective cases, to prevent tarnishing.​

List of Frequently Asked Questions About the 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin: A Comprehensive Collector’s Guide

The 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin is one of the most distinctive and internationally significant commemorative coins issued by the Royal Australian Mint. Struck to mark Australia’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting in Sydney, this coin blends diplomacy, artistry, and numismatic value.

For collectors, the coin stands out not just for its unique “C”-shaped cut-out design, but also for its symbolism representing economic unity across the Asia-Pacific region. Over time, it has become a sought-after modern commemorative piece among both Australian and global collectors.

This comprehensive FAQ guide answers everything you need to know—history, design, value, mintage, errors, investment potential, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin?

The 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin is a circulating commemorative coin issued by the Royal Australian Mint (RAM) to celebrate Australia hosting the APEC Leaders’ Meeting in Sydney in September 2007.

It was released into general circulation, making it both a functional currency and a collectible item.

2. What does APEC stand for?

APEC stands for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

It is a regional economic forum established in 1989, consisting of 21 member economies, including Australia, China, Japan, the USA, and others. The forum promotes free trade, economic growth, and regional cooperation.

3. Why was the 2007 APEC Summit important for Australia?

The 2007 APEC Summit was a landmark event for Australia because:

• It showcased Australia’s role in regional diplomacy

• Leaders from the world’s largest economies attended

• It strengthened Australia’s global economic standing

• Sydney gained international exposure

The commemorative coin was designed to symbolize unity, cooperation, and shared prosperity.

4. Who issued the 2007 APEC $1 Coin?

The coin was issued by the Royal Australian Mint, Canberra.

The Royal Australian Mint is responsible for producing all circulating Australian coins and commemorative issues.

5. Is the 2007 APEC $1 Coin legal tender?

Yes ✅
The 2007 APEC $1 Coin is legal tender in Australia and has a face value of one Australian dollar.

However, most examples today are worth more than face value due to collector demand.

6. What is the design of the 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin?

Reverse (Back) Design

• Features a stylized world globe

• Includes a distinctive “C”-shaped cut-out

• Symbolizes economic cooperation across the Pacific Rim

• Inscription: “APEC AUSTRALIA 2007”

Obverse (Front) Design

• Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II

• Designed by Ian Rank-Broadley

• Inscription includes:

  • “ELIZABETH II”

  • “AUSTRALIA”

  • Year “2007”

7. Why does the coin have a hole or cut-out?

The C-shaped cut-out is one of the most innovative features ever used on an Australian circulating coin.

It represents:

• The Pacific Ocean

• Open trade routes

• Cooperation and inclusion

This design choice makes the coin instantly recognizable and highly collectible.

8. What metal is the 2007 APEC $1 Coin made from?

The coin is made from aluminium bronze, the same alloy used for standard Australian $1 coins.

Metal Composition

• 92% Copper

• 6% Aluminium

• 2% Nickel

9. What are the coin’s specifications?

10. How many 2007 APEC $1 Coins were minted?

The estimated mintage is approximately 14 million coins.

While this is not extremely low, many coins entered circulation and were heavily used, making high-grade examples scarce today.

11. Was the coin released into circulation or only for collectors?

The coin was:

• Released into general circulation

• Also available in:

  • Mint sets

  • Uncirculated packs

  • Proof versions (limited)

12. Is the 2007 APEC $1 Coin rare?

The coin is not rare in circulated condition, but:

• Uncirculated examples are harder to find

• Proof versions are genuinely scarce

• Error coins are rare and valuable

Rarity increases significantly with condition and packaging.

13. What is the current value of the 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin?

Estimated Market Values (2025)

💡 Values vary based on demand, condition, and market trends.

14. Are there error varieties of the 2007 APEC $1 Coin?

Yes, collectors have identified several error types, including:

• Off-center strikes

• Incomplete or misaligned cut-outs

• Weak strikes

• Die cracks or doubling

Error coins can fetch significant premiums at auctions.

15. How can you identify a genuine 2007 APEC $1 Coin?

To confirm authenticity:

• Check the distinctive cut-out shape

• Verify weight and diameter

• Look for crisp lettering

• Compare with Royal Australian Mint references

Counterfeits are rare but do exist in online marketplaces.

16. How should the coin be stored to preserve value?

Best storage practices:

• Use coin capsules or Mylar flips

• Avoid PVC holders

• Store in a cool, dry place

• Do not clean the coin

Cleaning reduces numismatic value ❌

17. Is the 2007 APEC $1 Coin a good investment?

While not a high-return investment like gold coins, it is:

• A solid modern commemorative

• Popular with thematic collectors

• Likely to appreciate slowly over time

It works best as part of a diversified coin collection.

18. Why do collectors like the 2007 APEC $1 Coin?

Collectors appreciate it for:

• Unique design

• Historical relevance

• International theme

• First Australian $1 coin with a large cut-out

• Strong educational value

19. Where can you buy the 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin?

You can find it through:

• Coin dealers

• Online marketplaces

• Coin fairs

• Estate collections

• Royal Australian Mint secondary sales

Always buy from reputable sellers.

20. Is the coin popular outside Australia?

Yes 🌍
International collectors value it due to:

• APEC’s global relevance

• Innovative minting technique

• Distinctive appearance

It is often included in world commemorative coin collections.

21. Are proof versions different from circulation coins?

Yes. Proof coins:

• Have mirror-like fields

• Sharper details

• Limited mintage

• Higher collector value

They are usually housed in official presentation cases.

22. Can the 2007 APEC $1 Coin still be found in circulation today?

Occasionally, yes—but rarely in good condition.

Most surviving examples are:

• Heavily worn

• Collected out of circulation

• Stored in private collections

23. What makes the 2007 APEC $1 Coin unique among Australian $1 coins?

It stands out because:

• It has a large cut-out

• Represents a global political event

• Combines art with diplomacy

• Remains one of Australia’s most creative coin designs

24. Should beginners collect the 2007 APEC $1 Coin?

Absolutely 👍
It is ideal for beginners because:

• Affordable entry point

• Easy to identify

• Strong educational value

• Widely recognized

25. What future outlook does the coin have?

Long-term outlook is positive but steady:

• Gradual appreciation expected

• Strong niche demand

• Continued interest in APEC history

Condition will be the key driver of value.

Conclusion

The 2007 APEC Australia $1 Coin is far more than a circulating dollar—it is a symbol of international cooperation, modern minting innovation, and Australian diplomatic history. While common in worn condition, high-grade, proof, and error examples are increasingly desirable among collectors.

Whether you’re a beginner, a thematic collector, or a seasoned numismatist, this coin deserves a place in any Australian commemorative coin collection.

The 2007 APEC Australia $1 coin is more than just currency; it's a piece of history reflecting Australia's engagement in global economic discussions. Its unique design and commemorative significance make it a valuable addition to any coin collection.

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