1929 Centenary of Western Australia Coin: History, Design, Value, Collectibility and Mintage

The 1929 Centenary of Western Australia Coin is one of the most interesting commemorative pieces associated with Australian numismatic history. Although collectors frequently call it a “coin,” it is more accurately classified as the 1929 Centenary of Western Australia commemorative medal because it was not issued as legal-tender currency. Created to celebrate 100 years since the establishment of the Swan River Colony in 1829, the medal combines Western Australian history, royal portraiture and one of the state’s most recognizable symbols—the black swan.

Struck at the Perth Branch of the Royal Mint, now known as The Perth Mint, the medal appeared in bronze, silver and an extremely limited number of gold examples. The principal recorded mintage consists of 84,700 bronze medals, 889 silver medals and just 3 gold medals. This combination of historical importance, attractive design and scarce precious-metal versions has made the 1929 Western Australia Centenary medal an enduring target for collectors.

History of the 1929 Western Australia Centenary Medal

The medal commemorates a major milestone in Western Australian history. In 1829, the Swan River Colony was established on the western coast of Australia. Captain James Stirling played an important role in the foundation of the colony after exploring the Swan River area and supporting its potential for settlement.

By 1929, Western Australia had undergone a century of transformation. Towns had developed, mining and agriculture had expanded, transportation networks had grown and Perth had emerged as the state's principal city.

The centenary therefore became an opportunity to celebrate Western Australia's development and promote confidence in its future.

Commemorative events took place throughout 1929, and the official medal became one of the most tangible souvenirs of the celebrations. Unlike a normal circulating coin intended primarily for commerce, the medal was designed to preserve the memory of the anniversary.

A particularly important element of the distribution program involved children. More than 70,000 schoolchildren across Western Australia received bronze examples during the centenary celebrations, making the medal a personal historical object for thousands of families. Approximately 85 percent of the production was distributed to school-aged children.

1929 Centenary of Western Australia Mintage

Mintage is one of the most important factors collectors consider when evaluating a historical numismatic piece.

The recorded production figures are:

Bronze: 84,700 medals
Silver: 889 medals
Gold: 3 medals

The combined production was therefore approximately 85,592 pieces, although historical accounts sometimes describe the total more generally as approximately 85,000.

Records also indicate that the final quantity actually issued across the different types was lower than the total number struck. Museums Victoria records an overall issued quantity of 82,492 pieces.

The bronze version is consequently much easier to locate today than the silver or gold issues. However, surviving bronze medals in exceptional condition, especially with original packaging or documented provenance, can still be considerably more desirable than ordinary circulated examples.

The silver medal is substantially scarcer because fewer than 900 were produced, while the three gold examples belong to an entirely different level of rarity.

Design of the 1929 Western Australia Centenary Medal

One reason the medal remains popular is its distinctive design.

The obverse features a crowned portrait of King George V facing left. The portrait was created by prominent Australian-born sculptor Sir Bertram Mackennal. Around the portrait appears the royal inscription referring to George V as King and Emperor of India.

Mackennal was already a respected artist whose work appeared on numerous coins and medals associated with the British Empire.

The reverse offers the feature most closely associated with Western Australia: a dramatic black swan.

The design was created by British heraldic artist George Kruger Gray. Rather than presenting the swan in a quiet or static pose, the bird is depicted with considerable movement and energy. This gave the medal a distinctive appearance compared with many traditional commemorative pieces of the period.

The inscription around the reverse reads “CENTENARY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA 1929.”

Beneath the swan appears the Latin motto “CYGNIS INSIGNIS,” traditionally interpreted as referring to Western Australia's distinction or renown for its swans. Kruger Gray's initials can also be identified within the design.

Size, Weight and Metal

The standard centenary medal measures approximately 38 to 39 millimetres in diameter and about 3.5 millimetres thick.

Weight varies according to composition. Typical examples are approximately:

Bronze – around 32 grams
Tombac-type examples – around 30 grams
Silver – around 39 grams
Gold – around 62 grams

Research into surviving examples has also shown that not every bronze-coloured medal necessarily has exactly the same alloy composition. Some pieces described as tombac contain a higher proportion of zinc, giving them a more golden appearance, while conventional bronze examples generally contain a much higher percentage of copper.

This means collectors should not identify the exact composition simply from colour.

How the Medal Was Produced

The centenary medals were struck at the Perth Branch of the Royal Mint using dies prepared from designs created in England.

The first medal was ceremonially struck on 15 March 1929 by Lady McMillan, wife of Western Australia's Lieutenant-Governor.

Following the ceremonial beginning, production increased rapidly. Historical accounts describe bronze medals being produced at a rate of about 40 pieces per minute.

This combination of British artistic design and Western Australian production gives the medal an interesting place within both Australian and wider Commonwealth numismatic history.

Why So Many Bronze Medals Were Made

The comparatively large bronze mintage was intentional.

The centenary celebration was not designed only for wealthy collectors or government officials. Authorities wanted ordinary Western Australians, particularly children, to participate in the anniversary.

More than 70,000 bronze medals were consequently distributed to schoolchildren. Additional examples were sold to members of the public or distributed for special purposes.

Children's Day celebrations were held on 13 September 1929 in many communities. Activities included speeches, performances and sporting events, and the medals served as lasting reminders of the occasion.

Today, a bronze medal accompanied by its original envelope or a documented family history connected with a 1929 school presentation can have additional collector appeal.

1929 Centenary of Western Australia Coin Value

There is no single fixed value for a 1929 Western Australia Centenary medal. Prices depend heavily on metal, condition, originality, provenance and whether original packaging survives.

Common bronze examples generally occupy the most affordable part of the market. Recent market evidence shows individual bronze medals being offered in the tens of Australian dollars, while mixed auction groups containing several medals can produce relatively modest results.

Better-preserved bronze examples can command stronger premiums, particularly when they retain original surfaces and sharp details.

Silver examples are significantly more valuable because of their much smaller mintage. A 38 mm silver example graded around Extremely Fine realized A$750 at a 2021 Noble Numismatics auction, demonstrating that strong collector demand can push attractive examples well beyond their intrinsic silver value.

As a general guide rather than a guaranteed valuation, collectors may encounter ordinary bronze examples around A$20 to A$50, while especially attractive examples, unusual varieties or pieces with original packaging may sell for considerably more.

Silver examples can enter the hundreds of Australian dollars, depending on quality and competition between buyers.

Gold examples are so rare—with only three recorded—that normal price guides are not particularly useful. Their historical importance, provenance and extraordinary scarcity would be major factors in any transaction.

Condition and Its Effect on Value

Condition can dramatically affect collectibility.

Collectors generally prefer examples with clear lettering, strong swan details and minimal damage. Original surfaces are especially important.

Common problems include scratches, rim knocks, corrosion, excessive cleaning, staining and environmental damage.

Cleaning an old medal is generally discouraged. Abrasive polishing may make the surface appear brighter temporarily, but it can permanently remove original patina and leave fine scratches. Experienced collectors often prefer a naturally toned medal over one that has been aggressively polished.

Original envelopes, presentation cases and contemporary documentation should also be preserved.

Rare Versions and Varieties

Not every 1929 Centenary medal encountered in the market is identical.

Apart from standard bronze and silver versions, collectors may encounter copper, tombac-like pieces, presentation pieces and unusual specimens.

Some exceptionally rare specimen-related varieties can command prices far beyond those of ordinary bronze medals. For example, a uniface copper specimen connected with the centenary issue attracted bidding into the thousands of Australian dollars at auction, demonstrating the importance of correctly identifying unusual pieces rather than assuming every bronze-coloured example is common.

Collectors should therefore examine weight, metal, edge, inscriptions and construction carefully before determining rarity.

How to Identify a Genuine Example

A genuine standard medal should normally display the crowned portrait of George V on the obverse and the energetic swan design on the reverse.

Look for the correct legends, approximately 38–39 mm diameter, plain edge and appropriate weight for the metal.

The designer's details are also useful. Sir Bertram Mackennal created the royal portrait, while George Kruger Gray designed the swan reverse.

Collectors considering an expensive silver, unusual specimen or alleged gold example should obtain expert authentication. With historically important items, provenance can be just as valuable as physical appearance.

Collecting the 1929 Western Australia Centenary Medal

The bronze version offers an accessible starting point for collectors interested in Western Australian history.

A more advanced collection might include several compositions or varieties, such as a standard bronze medal, a higher-grade bronze example with original envelope, a tombac-type piece and a silver medal.

Finding the silver version is considerably more challenging because of its low production.

Collectors should prioritize originality rather than simply buying the brightest-looking example. A medal with honest age-related toning, good detail and no evidence of harsh cleaning may be preferable to a polished specimen.

Documentation connecting a particular medal with its original recipient can transform it from an interesting commemorative object into a piece of personal Western Australian history.

Investment and Long-Term Collectibility

Historical medals should primarily be collected for their historical, artistic and numismatic interest rather than treated as guaranteed investments.

Nevertheless, several characteristics support continuing collector interest in the 1929 issue: its clear connection to an important Western Australian anniversary, Perth Mint origin, attractive swan design, association with King George V and availability in dramatically different mintage levels.

Scarce silver pieces and exceptional varieties naturally offer a different collecting profile from the widely distributed bronze medals.

Future prices will depend on collector demand, condition, provenance, metal prices and availability. Past auction results should therefore be treated as evidence of previous market behaviour rather than promises of future value.

Final Thoughts

The 1929 Centenary of Western Australia medal remains one of the most recognizable souvenirs of Western Australia's centenary celebrations.

Its powerful black swan reverse, royal portrait, Perth Mint connection and widespread distribution to schoolchildren give it a story that extends far beyond simple metal value.

With 84,700 bronze, 889 silver and only 3 gold examples struck, the series ranges from accessible historical collectibles to exceptionally rare numismatic treasures. The surviving medals provide a direct connection with Western Australia in 1929 and the celebrations marking a century since the foundation of the Swan River Colony.

For collectors, the key is to understand exactly which version is being examined, preserve original surfaces and packaging, verify rare pieces carefully and avoid assuming that every medal has the same value.

Whether collected for Western Australian history, King George V memorabilia, Perth Mint heritage or Australian commemorative numismatics, the 1929 Centenary of Western Australia medal continues to hold a distinctive and enduring place in Australian collecting.

List of 1929 Centenary of Western Australia Coin (2026 Updated)

The 1929 Centenary of Western Australia Coin is commonly referred to by collectors as the 1929 Centenary of Western Australia Medal, a historic commemorative issue produced by the Perth Mint to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of Western Australia (1829–1929). Although it is not a circulating coin, it is one of Australia's most collectible commemorative numismatic pieces. The medal features the portrait of King George V on the obverse and the iconic Black Swan with the inscription "Centenary of Western Australia 1929" on the reverse. It was issued in bronze, silver, and gold, with bronze medals distributed widely to schoolchildren, while silver and gold examples were produced in much smaller numbers. Today, collector values depend on the metal type, rarity, condition, certification, original finish, and market demand. Premium uncirculated and professionally graded specimens command the highest prices in the Australian numismatic market. The table below provides estimated collector values for 2026.

1929 Centenary of Western Australia Medal Specifications

Note: The estimated values shown above reflect the 2026 Australian collector market. Actual selling prices vary according to the medal's metal composition, rarity, grade, original surfaces, toning, certification, provenance, auction demand, and overall collector interest. Bronze examples are the most commonly encountered, while silver issues are considerably scarcer and gold examples rank among the rarest Australian commemorative numismatic pieces. Historical provenance and certified Gem Uncirculated examples often achieve substantial premiums at major auctions.

1. Origins of Western Australia

Western Australia, the largest state on the Australian continent, was founded in 1829 with the establishment of the Swan River Colony. Captain James Stirling led the settlers, seeking to create a free, thriving colony unlike the penal settlements elsewhere.

The swan, an animal indigenous to the region, became synonymous with Western Australia's identity, symbolizing beauty, strength, and adaptability.

2. The Idea Behind the 1929 Centenary Celebrations

In 1929, Western Australia celebrated its 100th anniversary with grand events:

• Parades

• Dinners

• Art exhibitions

• Sporting events

Commemorative medals, stamps, and notably, the Centenary Coin were released to mark this milestone.

3. Why a Commemorative Coin?

The idea of issuing a coin came from a broader trend of marking national milestones through coinage. Following the success of the 1927 Parliament House Florin, the government and the Perth Mint collaborated to create a coin to symbolize Western Australia’s pride and progress.

4. Minting the Coin: A Detailed Overview

Authorization

Approval for minting was obtained from the Commonwealth government. The coin would be:

• A circulating legal tender

• Primarily a collector’s item

• Minted in sterling silver

The Perth Mint’s Role

The Perth Mint, established in 1899, was chosen due to its expertise in precious metals and its location within Western Australia.

5. Design Elements and Symbolism

Obverse: Portrait of King George V

• Design by Sir Bertram Mackennal

• King facing left

• Inscription: "GEORGE V KING EMPEROR"

Reverse: The Black Swan

• Designed by George Kruger Gray, a celebrated British coin designer.

• Central image: A graceful black swan gliding over rippled water.

• Inscriptions: "WESTERN AUSTRALIA - 1829-1929"

Symbolism

• The swan: Represents Western Australia’s unique identity.

• The water ripples: Symbolize change, progress, and continuity.

6. Technical Specifications

7. Limited Mintage and Melted Coins

Despite producing 200,000 coins, the public demand was disappointingly low. As a result:

• Many coins remained unsold.

• Unsold coins were recalled and melted.

• Estimated survivors: Between 25,000–50,000 coins today.

8. Rarity and Survivability

The rarity of the 1929 WA Centenary Coin stems from:

• Initial low uptake

• High melt rate

• Losses over time due to damage

High-grade specimens are exceptionally rare and command significant premiums.

9. Current Value and Price Trends

Current Market Values (Approx.)

Price Trends

• Steady rise over the past 20 years

• Particularly sharp increases for top-grade coins

• Proof coins achieve record prices at auctions

10. Authentication and Grading

How to Authenticate

• Check diameter and weight precisely.

• Look at the details of the swan (sharpness, clarity).

• Verify edge milling and inscriptions.

Top Grading Companies

• PCGS

• NGC

Certified coins always command higher prices and buyer confidence.

11. Investment Potential and Market Insights

Investing in this coin is a smart move because:

• Increasing demand from local and international collectors

• Decreasing supply (due to hoarding and museum acquisitions)

• Solid intrinsic silver value

Experts recommend focusing on AU and UNC graded coins for best long-term returns.

12. How to Buy a Genuine 1929 WA Centenary Coin

Trusted Sources

• Reputable numismatic dealers

• Authorized auction houses (e.g., Noble Numismatics)

• Certified e-commerce platforms like Heritage Auctions or Coins Australia

Tips for Safe Buying

• Always seek certification.

• Compare multiple sellers.

• Check refund policies.

13. Selling Your Coin: Best Practices

• Have your coin graded and certified.

• Offer through major auction houses.

• Use detailed, professional photos for online sales.

Timing sales during periods of high demand (e.g., major anniversaries) can yield better returns.

14. Caring for Your Coin Collection

• Store in archival-safe holders.

• Maintain stable humidity (around 40%-50%).

• Keep away from direct sunlight.

• Handle coins with cotton gloves.

Never attempt cleaning — it can ruin value permanently!

15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Was the 1929 Centenary Coin used for everyday transactions?

Technically yes, but most were kept as souvenirs rather than circulated.

Q: How many proof examples exist?

Fewer than 15 proof coins are confirmed.

Q: Why is the black swan important?

It represents Western Australia's unique natural heritage.

16. Comparing with Other Early Australian Commemoratives

The WA Centenary Coin stands out for its regional pride and graceful artistic design.

17. Notable Auction Results and Records

Prices have steadily climbed due to the coin's increasing rarity.

18. Stories from Collectors

• Some collectors recount discovering coins in old family estates.

• Others paid under $50 decades ago — and now their coins are worth thousands.

• One WA resident claims to still possess a coin given to his grandfather during the centenary festivities.

19. Trivia and Interesting Facts

• The black swan on the coin inspired many later state emblems and corporate logos in WA.

• Early advertising for the coin called it "A piece of history in your pocket."

• One coin was gifted to the Prince of Wales in 1930.

20. Final Thoughts: The Enduring Legacy

The 1929 Centenary of Western Australia Coin is more than metal — it encapsulates a century of exploration, hardship, and triumph. Its beauty, historic significance, and investment potential make it one of Australia's most important numismatic treasures.

Whether you seek financial growth, historic connection, or artistic admiration, this coin offers enduring rewards.

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