1813 Holey Dollar

While Australia’s numismatic history is younger than Europe’s, it boasts coins of exceptional significance: None more so than the 1813 Holey Dollar. Created during the turbulent early years of colonisation, the Holey Dollar (and its companion, the Dump) was issued to relieve the colony’s crippling coin shortage. Around 40,000 were produced from imported Spanish dollars, circulating until their demonetisation in 1829. Today, just 300 Holey Dollars are known, all commanding at least mid–five-figure sums at auction; the price of coins with well-detailed counterstamps easily surpasses six figures. The present coin, sourced out of London and graded Fair 2 by PCGS, holds the unusual distinction of being the most heavily worn Holey Dollar certified by PCGS. This dubious honour brings a silver lining: It is one of the most affordable specimens offered in recent years. Despite its grade, both counterstamps remain visible, with traces of the host coin discernible on both sides. For the collector who has long sought Australia’s first coin without breaking the bank, this is your chance.