2026 Australia's First Gold Rush 175th Anniversary 1/4oz Gold Proof Coin

To commemorate the 175th Anniversary of Australia’s First Gold Rush, The Perth Mint is pleased to present this 1/4oz gold proof coin.

In 1851, the discovery of gold at Ophir in New South Wales by Edward Hargraves sparked Australia's first official gold rush, leading to a wave of migration and rapid development across the country. Thousands of people arrived in search of fortune, driving population growth, infrastructure expansion, and profound social change.

The gold rush played a key role in shaping Australia's multicultural identity and economic foundations. In 2026, the nation will celebrate the 175th anniversary of this landmark moment in its history. The coin’s reverse features a map of Australia in the centre with a dot at Ophir—symbolising the birthplace of the nation’s first gold rush and the inscription ‘175’ representing the 175th anniversary.

The coin’s reverse features a map of Australia in the centre with a dot at Ophir—symbolising the birthplace of the nation’s first gold rush and the inscription ‘175’ representing the 175th anniversary.

Behind the map, a crossed shovel and pickaxe form a motif widely recognised as a symbol of Australia’s gold rush. The design includes iconic elements of gold panning life including a lantern, a pitched tent, a wheelbarrow filled with alluvium, a hand panning for gold, a bucket, and a cradle box pictured on rugged terrain.

Surrounding the design is the inscription “AUSTRALIA’S FIRST GOLD RUSH”, accompanied by a stylised border, the 2026 year-date, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark. 

Specifications:

• Year: 2026
• Metal: Gold 99.99
• Weight (oz): 1
• Denomination (AUD): 100
• Max Mintage: 500
• Designer: Lucas Bowers

**Please Note that this product is not in stock and will take approximately 1 week to ship from date of order**