1929 Centenary of Western Australia Coin: Complete Guide to History, Design, Value, and Collectibility

The 1929 Centenary of Western Australia Coin is a timeless tribute to the pioneering spirit that shaped the vast and rugged west of Australia. As one of the earliest Australian commemorative coins, it holds a significant place in the hearts of historians, collectors, and investors.

Through this comprehensive guide, we will journey through the coin’s fascinating history, detailed design elements, minting process, current market trends, investment strategies, and much more.

Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a curious history enthusiast, this article is your ultimate resource on the 1929 Western Australia Centenary Coin.

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.

Medal Type / Grade Description Estimated Value (AUD)
Bronze – Fair Heavy circulation $25 – $45
Bronze – Good Well-worn collectible $45 – $75
Bronze – Very Good Moderate wear $75 – $120
Bronze – Fine Clear design details $120 – $180
Bronze – Very Fine Attractive example $180 – $300
Bronze – Extremely Fine Light wear $300 – $500
Bronze – About Uncirculated Minimal handling $500 – $800
Bronze – Uncirculated Mint condition $800 – $1,300
Bronze – Gem Uncirculated Premium specimen $1,300 – $2,000
Silver – Fine Scarce collector issue $500 – $900
Silver – Very Fine High-quality example $900 – $1,500
Silver – Extremely Fine Strong collector demand $1,500 – $2,500
Silver – About Uncirculated Premium grade $2,500 – $4,000
Silver – Gem Uncirculated Rare certified specimen $4,000 – $7,000
Gold – Collector Grade Extremely rare issue $18,000 – $35,000
Gold – Premium Certified Museum-quality specimen $35,000 – $70,000+

1929 Centenary of Western Australia Medal Specifications

Specification Details
Year 1929
Commemorative Theme Centenary of Western Australia (1829–1929)
Issuing Authority Perth Mint
Type Commemorative Medal
Obverse King George V
Reverse Black Swan above "Centenary of Western Australia 1929"
Designers Bertram MacKennal (Obverse), George Kruger Gray (Reverse)
Diameter 38 mm
Weight Approximately 32–33 g (Bronze)
Shape Round
Edge Plain
Metal Types Bronze, Silver, Gold
Collectability Very High

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

Feature Detail
Metal 92.5% Silver, 7.5% Copper
Diameter 28.5 mm
Weight 11.31 grams
Edge Milled
Issuing Mint Perth Mint
Total Mintage 200,000 coins

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.)

Grade Price Range (AUD)
Fine (F) $200 - $400
Very Fine (VF) $450 - $750
Extremely Fine (EF) $800 - $1,600
About Uncirculated (AU) $2,000+
Uncirculated (UNC) $3,500 - $7,000
Proof $15,000+

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

Coin Year Focus
Parliament House Florin 1927 National Government
Western Australia Centenary Coin 1929 Regional Heritage

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

17. Notable Auction Results and Records

Year Grade Sale Price (AUD)
2018 Proof $18,500
2020 UNC $6,750
2023 AU58 $3,250

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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