1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin: History, Mintage, Value, Rarity and Collector Guide

The 1967 Australia 20 cent coin is an important early issue from the nation’s decimal currency era. Introduced only one year after Australia converted from pounds, shillings and pence to dollars and cents, the 1967 twenty cent coin represents a fascinating period in Australian monetary history. Its familiar platypus design, substantial size and connection with the early years of decimalisation have helped make it a popular coin among both new and experienced collectors.

Approximately 83.8 million 1967 Australian 20 cent coins were minted, meaning ordinary circulated examples are not considered rare. However, age, preservation, attractive surfaces, unusual minting characteristics and exceptionally high grades can make individual coins considerably more desirable. For collectors building an Australian decimal collection, the 1967 20 cent coin remains an affordable yet historically significant piece.

History of the 1967 Australian 20 Cent Coin

Australia introduced decimal currency on 14 February 1966, replacing the old system of pounds, shillings and pence with the Australian dollar divided into 100 cents. The new denominations included 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents and 50 cents coins.

The twenty cent denomination effectively replaced the old two-shilling or florin coin in everyday transactions. Because Australians had been accustomed to relatively large silver-coloured florins, the new 20 cent coin was produced as a substantial copper-nickel coin that was easy to distinguish from smaller denominations.

The 1966 twenty cent represented the first year of the denomination, while the 1967 Australia 20 cent coin was its second-year issue. By 1967, Australians were becoming increasingly familiar with decimal prices and the new coinage system.

Unlike the first 1966 issue, which involved production at more than one mint, the Royal Australian Mint records the 1967 twenty cent production under the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra. The large mintage was necessary to supply Australia's rapidly changing cash economy during the early decimal period.

1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin Mintage

The official mintage for the 1967 twenty cent coin is approximately:

1967 Australian 20 Cent Mintage: 83,848,000 coins

Rounded official figures commonly list the production total as 83.8 million.

This was a substantial mintage. Consequently, collectors should understand that the year 1967 by itself does not automatically make a twenty cent coin rare.

Millions entered circulation and remained in everyday use for years. Many surviving examples consequently display scratches, worn details, contact marks, dull surfaces or other signs of circulation.

What can become much more difficult to locate is a 1967 twenty cent piece with exceptional original condition. Coins preserved before receiving significant circulation wear can attract considerably more collector interest than heavily used examples.

Design of the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin

One of the strongest attractions of the 1967 Australian 20 cent coin is its distinctly Australian design.

The coin combines a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse with an Australian platypus on the reverse.

Obverse Design

The obverse features a right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II designed by British sculptor Arnold Machin.

The portrait shows the Queen wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Around the portrait appear the inscriptions identifying Elizabeth II, Australia and the year of issue.

This portrait became closely associated with Australia's early decimal coins and provides an immediate visual connection with the coinage of the 1960s and 1970s.

When examining a 1967 twenty cent coin for condition, collectors often pay close attention to the Queen's portrait. Wear on the hair, facial details and higher areas of the design can help indicate how extensively the coin circulated.

Reverse Platypus Design

The reverse is perhaps the most recognizable part of the Australian twenty cent coin.

It depicts a platypus, one of Australia's most distinctive native animals, surrounded by stylised water. The large numeral 20 indicates the denomination.

The design was created by Australian artist and goldsmith Stuart Devlin, who designed the reverses of several original Australian decimal coins.

The platypus was an excellent choice for the denomination because it immediately gave the new currency a strong Australian identity.

Devlin's initials, SD, are incorporated into the reverse design.

1967 Twenty Cent Coin Specifications

The 1967 Australian 20 cent coin belongs to the original copper-nickel twenty cent series.

Its principal specifications include:

Denomination: 20 cents
Country: Australia
Year: 1967
Composition: 75% copper and 25% nickel
Approximate weight: 11.3 grams
Approximate diameter: 28.65 millimetres
Shape: Circular
Edge: Milled or reeded
Obverse designer: Arnold Machin
Reverse designer: Stuart Devlin
Reverse subject: Australian platypus
Mintage: Approximately 83.8 million

The copper-nickel composition provides the familiar silver-grey appearance associated with Australian 20 cent coins.

Is the 1967 Australian 20 Cent Coin Rare?

In normal circulated condition, the answer is generally no.

With more than 83 million coins produced, the standard 1967 twenty cent is not a low-mintage Australian decimal coin. Many examples have survived, and circulated specimens can still appear in collections, inherited coin groups and accumulations of older Australian currency.

However, rarity in numismatics depends on more than the original production number.

A coin can have a high mintage but become difficult to obtain in exceptionally high grade. Finding a heavily circulated 1967 twenty cent is considerably easier than finding one with sharp details, strong original lustre, minimal contact marks and attractive surfaces.

Collectors therefore distinguish between date rarity and condition rarity.

The 1967 twenty cent is not particularly rare as a date, but high-quality examples can be substantially more desirable.

1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin Value

The value of a 1967 Australian 20 cent coin depends primarily on its condition.

Most ordinary circulated examples are generally inexpensive collector coins. Their age alone does not guarantee a large premium because of the substantial original mintage.

A heavily worn specimen may have little additional numismatic value beyond its denomination or a modest collector premium. Better-preserved examples can become more desirable, while genuine uncirculated coins may command higher prices.

Collectors usually evaluate coins through recognised grading levels such as:

Good: Heavy circulation wear with major design elements still identifiable.

Very Fine: Moderate wear but considerably more detail remaining.

Extremely Fine: Light circulation wear with strong overall design detail.

About Uncirculated: Only very minor signs of circulation or friction.

Uncirculated: No circulation wear, although marks from production, storage or contact with other coins may still be present.

Exceptional coins at the upper end of the uncirculated grading scale can be much harder to locate than typical circulated pieces.

Coin values should therefore be treated as condition-dependent rather than assuming every 1967 twenty cent has the same price.

What Makes a 1967 Twenty Cent More Valuable?

Several characteristics can increase collector interest.

Excellent Condition

Condition is one of the most important factors. A coin retaining strong original lustre with sharp details and relatively few marks is normally more desirable than a worn example.

High Professional Grade

Coins certified by established professional grading companies can sometimes attract stronger interest, particularly when they receive unusually high numerical grades.

Certification alone does not automatically make a coin valuable, but authentication and an exceptional grade can make premium-quality pieces easier for collectors to evaluate.

Genuine Minting Errors

Authentic mint errors may also increase value.

Possible minting abnormalities can include off-centre strikes, clipped planchets, striking problems, unusual die characteristics and other genuine production errors.

However, collectors should distinguish carefully between a mint error and ordinary damage that happened after the coin entered circulation.

Scratches, dents, grinding, chemical discoloration, deliberate alteration and damage from machinery do not usually constitute valuable mint errors.

Strong Eye Appeal

Two coins receiving approximately the same technical grade may still look very different.

Collectors often prefer coins with attractive original colour, even surfaces, sharp strikes and minimal distracting marks.

1967 Coin Versus the Famous 1966 Wavy Baseline 20 Cent

Collectors researching the 1967 Australian 20 cent coin sometimes confuse it with the famous 1966 Wavy Baseline 20 Cent.

The valuable wavy baseline variety belongs to 1966, not 1967.

Certain 1966 twenty cent coins struck using a particular reverse die show a distinctive curve or wave along the baseline of the numeral 2. This variety has become one of the better-known early Australian decimal coin varieties.

Collectors should therefore be cautious when advertisements or online discussions describe an ordinary 1967 coin as a "Wavy 20."

The standard 1967 twenty cent should not automatically be associated with the famous 1966 variety.

How to Check a 1967 Australian 20 Cent Coin

Begin by confirming that the coin clearly displays 1967 on the obverse.

Next, examine the platypus reverse under good lighting. Look carefully at the animal's details, the surrounding water lines, the denomination and the overall strike.

Check the highest areas of the designs for wear.

Inspect the surfaces for scratches, dents, corrosion or cleaning marks.

If the coin appears unusually well preserved, avoid touching the main surfaces with bare fingers. Hold it carefully by the edge.

Collectors should also avoid aggressively cleaning an old coin. Polishing can remove original surface characteristics and leave microscopic scratches, often reducing numismatic desirability.

Cleaning a 1967 Twenty Cent Coin

Cleaning collectible coins is generally discouraged.

A darkened or slightly toned coin may appear less attractive to a beginner, but its natural surface can be more desirable to collectors than an artificially polished surface.

Metal polish, abrasive cloths, toothpaste and harsh chemicals can permanently alter a coin.

If a 1967 twenty cent appears potentially valuable because of exceptional condition or an unusual minting feature, professional examination is preferable to attempting to improve its appearance.

Collecting the 1967 Australian 20 Cent Coin

The 1967 twenty cent is an excellent coin for collectors interested in the first years of Australian decimal currency.

One popular collecting approach is to assemble twenty cent coins by year. Another is to create a complete early decimal collection containing 1 cent, 2 cent, 5 cent, 10 cent, 20 cent and 50 cent denominations.

Because ordinary 1967 twenty cent coins are relatively accessible, collectors can concentrate on finding the best-quality example they can reasonably obtain instead of simply obtaining any specimen of the date.

This makes the coin suitable for beginners while still providing a challenge for advanced collectors searching for exceptional examples.

Historical Importance of the 1967 Twenty Cent

The significance of the 1967 Australian 20 cent coin extends beyond its monetary value.

It was produced during the formative years of Australia's decimal currency system and reflects an important transformation in the country's financial history.

Its design also demonstrates the effort made to give Australian decimal currency a distinctive national identity. Instead of relying entirely on traditional heraldic imagery, the reverse celebrated native wildlife through Stuart Devlin's memorable platypus.

More than half a century later, that design remains instantly recognisable.

Final Thoughts on the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin

The 1967 Australia 20 cent coin combines history, attractive design and accessibility in a single collectible.

With a mintage of approximately 83.8 million coins, the regular 1967 issue is not inherently rare. Ordinary circulated pieces usually have modest collector value, while high-grade uncirculated examples and genuine mint errors can be significantly more desirable.

Its importance lies especially in its position as an early decimal Australian coin. The Arnold Machin portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and Stuart Devlin's iconic platypus on the reverse represent an important period in Australian coinage.

For anyone building an Australian decimal collection, studying old Australian coins or searching inherited coins for interesting pieces, the 1967 twenty cent remains a worthwhile coin to identify and preserve.

Rather than judging the coin by age alone, collectors should examine condition, originality, strike quality and genuine minting characteristics. A typical circulated 1967 twenty cent may be common, but a beautifully preserved example can offer an appealing connection with the beginning of Australia's modern decimal currency era.

List of 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin Value (2026 Updated)

The 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin is one of the most collected early decimal coins issued after Australia adopted decimal currency in 1966. Featuring Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and Stuart Devlin's iconic platypus design on the reverse, this copper-nickel coin remains popular among collectors because of its historical significance and affordable entry price. Although over 83 million coins were minted, high-grade uncirculated examples and professionally graded specimens can command substantially higher premiums. The value of a 1967 Australian 20 cent coin depends on its condition, luster, strike quality, and whether it has been certified by a professional grading service. The 2026 value guide below provides estimated market prices for every major collectible grade.

1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin Specifications

1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin Value (2026 Price Guide)

1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin Value by Year (2026)

Factors That Increase the Value

• Original mint luster
• Sharp platypus and Queen Elizabeth II details
• No cleaning or polishing
• Minimal contact marks
• High certified Mint State grades (MS65 and above)
• Attractive natural toning

Collecting Tips

Collectors should look for coins with strong eye appeal, original surfaces, and minimal wear. Because the 1967 issue was heavily circulated, finding flawless uncirculated examples is increasingly difficult. Professionally graded Mint State coins generally achieve the highest prices, while ordinary circulated pieces are widely available at modest premiums above face value.

Section 1: History of Australian Currency and Coinage

• The Shift to Decimal Currency (1966): Discuss Australia's historical shift from the imperial pound to decimal currency in 1966. Explore the motivations behind this change, including the influence of international trade and the desire for a modern currency system.

• The Introduction of the 20-Cent Coin: The 20-cent coin was one of the major coins introduced in the 1966 decimalization process. Explain why this coin became part of Australia’s currency and its role in the new monetary system.

• 1967 as a Landmark Year: The year 1967 marked a crucial time in Australian history as it was the first full year that the new decimal currency was in circulation. This section will highlight the cultural and economic context of 1967, making it a significant year for the coinage.

Section 2: Design of the 1967 Australia 20 Coin

• The Role of Stuart Devlin: Stuart Devlin, a British-born artist, was commissioned to design the new Australian decimal currency. The design of the 20-cent coin is one of his most famous works. Discuss his background and influence on Australian coin design.

• The Platypus Design: The 1967 Australia 20 Coin features a detailed depiction of a platypus, a native Australian animal. This design was carefully chosen to represent the uniqueness of Australian fauna. Explore the symbolic significance of the platypus in Australian culture.

• The Reverse and Obverse Designs: Break down the specific design elements found on both the obverse (front) and reverse (back) sides of the coin. Highlight the monarch’s portrait on the obverse, which was common in coins of the era, and the platypus on the reverse.

Section 3: Minting Process and Specifications

• The Minting Process: Discuss how coins are produced, with a particular focus on the 1967 Australia 20 Coin. Explain the process at the Royal Australian Mint and the role of quality control in coin production.

• Specifications of the Coin: List the physical properties of the coin, such as its weight, diameter, and material composition (cupro-nickel).

• Production Numbers and Rarity: Analyze the number of 1967 Australia 20 coins minted and their impact on rarity. Compare production numbers for other years in the series and how these affect the coin’s value today.

Section 4: Value of the 1967 Australia 20 Coin

• How the Value Has Evolved: Discuss the appreciation of the 1967 Australia 20 Coin over time. Highlight how the coin’s value has changed due to market demand, rarity, and collector interest.

• Factors Affecting Coin Value: Explain how various factors influence the value of the 1967 Australia 20 Coin, such as its condition (e.g., uncirculated, proof, and circulated), mint marks, and any potential errors.

• Current Market Value: Provide a general guide on how much the coin is worth today in different conditions. Include information on sales through auctions or dealers.

• Comparing Rarity Across Different Versions: Discuss the different types of 1967 Australia 20 Coins, such as proof and regular circulation versions, and how these versions affect pricing.

Section 5: Collecting the 1967 Australia 20 Coin

• Why Collectors Value This Coin: Discuss the significance of the 1967 Australia 20 Coin in the context of Australian numismatics and why collectors are so keen on owning one.

• How to Identify a Genuine Coin: Offer tips on how collectors can identify authentic 1967 Australia 20 Coins, including advice on spotting counterfeit coins.

• Grading and Condition: Discuss coin grading and how it affects the value of the 1967 coin. Include descriptions of grading systems like the Sheldon Scale and how collectors can determine their coin’s grade.

• Where to Buy and Sell: Provide a guide to reputable dealers, online marketplaces, and coin shows where collectors can buy and sell 1967 Australia 20 Coins.

Section 6: Common Misconceptions About the 1967 Australia 20 Coin

• Debunking Common Myths: Address some of the common myths surrounding the 1967 Australia 20 Coin, such as exaggerated claims about its value or the existence of rare “errors” that may not exist.

• Misunderstandings About Rarity: Clarify misconceptions about which versions of the 1967 coin are actually rare, including how mint marks, conditions, and variations play a role in determining rarity.

Section 7: The 1967 Australia 20 Coin in Popular Culture

• How the Coin Became Iconic: Discuss the cultural significance of the 1967 Australia 20 Coin and how it has been referenced in Australian popular culture, films, TV shows, and other media.

• Public Perception of Rare Coins: Explore the fascination that the general public has with rare coins and how this contributes to the ongoing popularity of the 1967 coin.

Section 8: Preserving and Caring for the 1967 Australia 20 Coin

• Storage and Protection: Provide practical advice on how to store and protect the 1967 Australia 20 Coin to ensure it retains its value.

• Cleaning and Handling: Discuss the dos and don'ts of cleaning and handling the coin. Explain how improper handling can damage the coin and reduce its value.

• Protective Cases and Albums: Recommend tools such as coin holders, albums, and capsules to keep the coin in the best possible condition.

List of Frequently Asked Questions About the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin

A Deep Dive into Its History, Design, Rarity, and Value

The 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin is one of the most intriguing issues in Australian decimal coinage. Issued just one year after Australia’s historic transition to decimal currency, the 1967 twenty cent coin carries forward the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II while introducing subtle changes in composition, availability, and collectibility. While often overshadowed by the famous 1966 silver 20 cent, the 1967 Australia 20c coin has developed a strong collector following due to its historical context, limited varieties, condition rarity, and long-term investment appeal.

This in-depth FAQ guide explores everything collectors and enthusiasts need to know about the 1967 Australian 20 Cent coin, including its history, design, specifications, minting details, value, rarity, errors, and future outlook.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin

1. What is the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin?

The 1967 Australia 20 cent coin is a decimal circulation coin issued by the Royal Australian Mint during the second year of Australia’s decimal currency system. It features Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and the iconic platypus design on the reverse.

Unlike the 1966 issue, the 1967 20 cent coin was produced entirely in cupro-nickel, with no silver content.

2. Why is the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin important?

The coin is important because it represents:

• The stabilization of Australia’s decimal coinage

• The end of silver in Australian circulating coins

• Continued use of iconic national designs

• Early Elizabeth II decimal portrait usage

It bridges the transition between silver-based and modern alloy coinage.

3. Who appears on the obverse of the 1967 20 Cent Coin?

The obverse features Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin, one of the most influential coin portrait designers of the 20th century.

This portrait is commonly known as the Machin Portrait.

4. What does the obverse design represent?

The obverse includes:

• A right-facing bust of Queen Elizabeth II

• The inscription “ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA”

• The date 1967

The design symbolizes continuity, stability, and Australia’s constitutional monarchy.

5. Who designed the reverse of the 1967 20 Cent Coin?

The reverse was designed by Stuart Devlin, an internationally respected Australian goldsmith and silversmith.

Devlin’s designs remain among the most admired in Australian numismatics.

6. What is depicted on the reverse of the 1967 20 Cent Coin?

The reverse features:

• A swimming platypus

• The denomination “20 CENTS”

The platypus is an iconic native Australian animal, chosen to reflect the country’s unique wildlife and identity.

7. Why was the platypus chosen for the 20 cent coin?

The platypus was chosen because it:

• Is uniquely Australian

• Represents adaptability and resilience

• Was unfamiliar yet fascinating to international audiences

It has remained unchanged on the 20 cent coin to this day.

8. What metal is the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin made of?

The coin is composed of:

• 75% copper

• 25% nickel

This cupro-nickel alloy replaced the silver used in the 1966 issue.

9. Why was silver removed from the 20 cent coin after 1966?

Silver was removed because:

• Rising silver prices made silver coins uneconomical

• Hoarding of 1966 silver coins was widespread

• Cupro-nickel offered durability and cost efficiency

By 1967, Australia had fully transitioned away from circulating silver.

10. What are the specifications of the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin?

These specifications remain standard for Australian 20 cent coins.

11. Where was the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin minted?

All 1967 20 cent coins were minted at the:

• Royal Australian Mint, Canberra

This marked a shift toward domestic minting independence.

12. What was the mintage of the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin?

The estimated mintage is approximately:

• 27 million coins

While this seems high, few survive today in high-grade condition.

13. Is the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin rare?

In circulated condition, it is not rare. However, rarity increases significantly in:

• Uncirculated condition

• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU)

• Proof-like examples

• Error or variety coins

Condition rarity is the key factor.

14. How much is a circulated 1967 20 cent coin worth?

Typical values include:

• Heavily circulated: Face value

• Average circulated: Slight premium

• Nice circulated examples: Collectible but affordable

Most value lies beyond circulated condition.

15. What is the value of an uncirculated 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin?

Uncirculated values can range from:

• ₹1,000 – ₹4,000+

• Higher for well-struck examples with strong lustre

Graded coins command even higher premiums.

16. Were proof 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coins issued?

Yes. The Royal Australian Mint issued:

• 1967 Proof Sets

These sets included all denominations, including the 20 cent coin.

17. What is the value of a 1967 proof 20 cent coin?

Approximate values:

• Individual proof coin: ₹8,000 – ₹25,000+

• Complete proof set: ₹40,000 – ₹1,20,000+

Original cases and certificates add significant value.

18. Are there known varieties of the 1967 20 Cent Coin?

Unlike the 1966 “Wavy Baseline” variety, the 1967 issue has:

• No major officially recognized varieties

• Minor die differences studied by specialists

Collectors still seek subtle variations.

19. Are there error coins from 1967?

Yes, known errors include:

• Off-center strikes

• Broadstrikes

• Die cracks

• Weak strikes

• Clipped planchets

Certified error coins can be highly valuable.

20. How does the 1967 20 cent compare to the 1966 issue?

Both are important but appeal differently to collectors.

21. Is the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin legal tender?

Yes. The 1967 20 cent coin:

• Remains legal tender in Australia

• Is rarely seen in circulation today

Most are held by collectors.

22. Should I clean a 1967 20 Cent Coin?

No. Cleaning:

• Reduces collector value

• Damages original surfaces

• Leaves visible marks

Collectors prefer untouched coins.

23. How should a 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin be stored?

Recommended storage methods include:

• Airtight coin capsules

• Acid-free flips

• Climate-controlled environments

Proper storage preserves lustre and value.

24. Is the 1967 20 cent coin good for beginners?

Yes. It is ideal because:

• It’s affordable

• Widely available

• Historically important

• Easy to upgrade by condition

Many collectors start with early decimal issues like this.

25. Is the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin a good investment?

As an investment:

• It performs best in high grades

• Proof coins show stronger appreciation

• Error coins outperform standard issues

It is best viewed as a collector-focused investment.

26. How does grading affect the coin’s value?

Professional grading:

• Confirms authenticity

• Establishes condition

• Increases buyer confidence

High-grade slabs often sell for multiples of raw coins.

27. Can the 1967 20 cent coin still be found in circulation?

Occasionally, but rarely:

• Most circulated examples are worn

• High-grade coins are almost never found

Coin roll hunting yields limited success.

28. Why do collectors still care about a non-silver coin?

Collectors value the 1967 20 cent coin because:

• It represents a key transitional year

• It continues iconic design traditions

• Condition rarity is increasing

• Early decimal coins are gaining attention

29. What is the long-term outlook for the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin?

The outlook remains positive due to:

• Growing interest in decimal coinage

• Shrinking supply of high-grade examples

• Strong historical narrative

Well-preserved coins should continue to appreciate.

30. Why is the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin still relevant today?

It remains relevant because it combines:

• Royal imagery

• National symbolism

• Economic transition

• Collectible challenge

It tells the story of modern Australia in metal.

Final Thoughts on the 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin

The 1967 Australia 20 Cent Coin may not contain silver, but its historical importance, design elegance, and condition-based rarity make it a cornerstone of early decimal collections. Whether you are a beginner building your first set or an experienced numismatist hunting for premium examples, this coin offers enduring appeal and solid long-term potential.

Conclusion

Summarize the key points discussed in the article, highlighting the importance of the 1967 Australia 20 Coin in numismatic history. Encourage readers to examine their own collections and start learning more about the coin's history, value, and significance. Mention where they can find expert advice and resources to further their interest in collecting this iconic coin.

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