Obverse. Photo © Royal Australian Mint
  • 1 Dollar 2023, KM# 4481, Australia, Charles III, Aussie Big Things, The Big Lobster
  • 1 Dollar 2023, KM# 4481, Australia, Charles III, Aussie Big Things, The Big Lobster
Description

The Aussie Big Things coin collection by the Royal Australian Mint offers a delightful homage to some of Australia's most recognizable oversized landmarks. Featuring vibrant designs, each coin captures the essence of a different Big Thing, from the iconic Big Banana to the towering Big Pineapple. These coins serve as miniature tributes to the quirky roadside attractions that have captured the hearts of travelers across the country.

As the new King Charles III dies were not yet ready for this coin set, all the obverse designs feature a posthumous effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with the addition of the double dates of her reign, 1952-2022.

Obverse

Depicts 6th crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II facing right (the Commonwealth effigy), wearing the George IV State Diadem, the Coronation Necklace and Earrings, surrounded by the name and the double date of her reign above, and the denomination below.

The George IV State Diadem, also known as the Diamond Diadem, was crafted in 1820 specifically for King George IV. This regal crown is traditionally worn by queens and queens consort during ceremonial processions such as coronations and State Openings of Parliament. Renowned for its elegance and significance, the diadem has been depicted in various artworks, featured on postage stamps, and even showcased on currency. Visitors can admire this exquisite piece of jewelry at the Queen's Gallery, located within Buckingham Palace.

Crafted in 1858 by Garrard & Co., the Coronation Necklace was commissioned for Queen Victoria. Measuring 38 cm (15 in) in length, it boasts 25 cushion diamonds and features the stunning 22-carat (4.4 g) Lahore Diamond as its pendant. This necklace, often paired with the Coronation Earrings, has been a staple accessory for both queens regnant and consorts during coronation ceremonies since 1901.

Engraver: Jody Clark

ELIZABETH II 1952-2022 • AUSTRALIA 2023
• 1 DOLLAR •
JC

Reverse

Depicts the Big Lobster road-side attraction, on a background representing an Australian landscape. On a sign on the left, the inscription KINGSTON.

Nestled in Rosetown since 1979, the Big Lobster, measuring a staggering 17×15×13 meters (56×49×43 feet), affectionately dubbed "Larry" by locals, serves as a captivating landmark. Designed and constructed by Paul Kelly, the same creative mind behind the Big Scotsman, this colossal crustacean was envisioned to draw attention to the visitor center and restaurant where it resides. Crafted over six months from a steel frame with a fiberglass shell, the Big Lobster's mammoth size was initially attributed to a measurement mishap, as the original plans were mistakenly interpreted from feet to meters. Despite this error, it remains a remarkable sight, slightly surpassing its intended length of approximately 12 meters.

Engraver: Aleksandra Stokic

THE BIG
LOBSTER
KINGSTON

Edge

1 Dollar

6th portrait, Transition obverse
KM# 4481
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Aluminium Bronze
Weight 9 g
Diameter 25 mm
Thickness 2.5 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Australian Mint (RAM)

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