-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 55940
Checkout
The Australia 6 Piece Proof Set 2011 is a meticulously crafted collection released by the Royal Australian Mint as part of its long-standing annual tradition of showcasing the nation’s circulating coinage in the highest possible quality. This set features proof versions of all six standard Australian coin denominations and represents the Mint’s continued commitment to excellence in numismatic presentation. Unlike some other years which highlight specific commemorative themes, the 2011 proof set maintains a classical focus, emphasizing the timeless artistry of Australia’s decimal coin designs, many of which were originally created by the celebrated designer Stuart Devlin. Collectors prize this set for its technical perfection, enduring design, and place within a complete run of Australian annual proof issues.
The coins in the 2011 proof set include the 5 cent, 10 cent, 20 cent, 50 cent, 1 dollar, and 2 dollar denominations. Each coin features the standard reverse designs that have become iconic representations of Australia’s natural heritage and national identity. The 5 cent coin depicts the spiny echidna, the 10 cent features the superb lyrebird, and the 20 cent showcases the platypus swimming in rippling water—all designs by Stuart Devlin. The 50 cent coin bears the Australian Coat of Arms, which includes a kangaroo and emu supporting a shield of state symbols. The 1 dollar coin features the “mob of roos,” five kangaroos in motion, while the 2 dollar coin displays the portrait of an Aboriginal elder, flanked by the Southern Cross constellation and native grass trees. These designs have become hallmarks of Australian currency and are presented in the 2011 set with exceptional clarity and finish.
Each coin in the set is struck to proof standard using hand-polished dies and specially prepared planchets, resulting in a stunning contrast between frosted reliefs and mirror-polished fields. This process brings out the intricate detail in every design, from the texture of the lyrebird’s feathers to the fine lines of the echidna’s quills. The obverse of each coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II designed by Ian Rank-Broadley, accompanied by the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “AUSTRALIA,” and the year “2011.” The high-fidelity rendering of Her Majesty's portrait in proof format further elevates the presentation of these coins, reflecting the mint’s dedication to technical and artistic precision.
The 2011 proof set is presented in a handsome Royal Australian Mint leatherette case with a dark blue exterior and velvet-lined interior. Each coin is individually encapsulated in clear protective holders, ensuring preservation of their flawless surfaces. The case fits snugly within a full-color outer sleeve that typically includes graphic elements tied to the set’s release year and national motifs. A numbered certificate of authenticity accompanies each set, confirming the coin specifications, metal content, and limited mintage. These packaging elements are integral to the set’s collectibility and value, particularly among collectors who value complete, original presentation materials.
The mintage for the 2011 6 Piece Proof Set was limited to approximately 20,000 units, in keeping with the Royal Australian Mint’s practice of issuing its annual sets in controlled quantities to preserve exclusivity. This relatively low mintage ensures that the 2011 set remains desirable among collectors, particularly those building complete runs of modern Australian proof sets. As the proof versions of Australia’s circulating coins are only made available in sets like this, they are the only way to obtain these designs in the highest possible minting quality. The enduring appeal of the standard coin designs further adds to the set’s numismatic and aesthetic value.
Condition is paramount when it comes to preserving the value of the 2011 proof set. Coins should remain sealed in their original capsules, protected from air, moisture, and handling. The mirror-like proof surfaces are susceptible to spotting and hazing if not properly stored, so collectors prioritize sets that include the original case, outer box, and certificate of authenticity. Some collectors also choose to submit individual coins—particularly the higher denominations—for third-party grading through services like PCGS or NGC. Coins that receive perfect grades of PF70 or near-perfect PF69 command premium prices on the secondary market due to their pristine state and verified condition.
Visually, the 2011 proof set is a triumph of design and finish. The familiar Australian motifs—animals, national symbols, and cultural figures—are presented with extraordinary precision and clarity, allowing collectors to appreciate the artistry behind these enduring designs. The frosted finishes of the raised images stand in bold relief against the highly reflective fields, creating a pleasing contrast that enhances both fine detail and overall aesthetic appeal. The symmetry and craftsmanship of the set make it an attractive centerpiece for any collection of modern Australian coinage.
Historically, proof sets like the 2011 issue are not merely collectibles—they serve as a record of Australia’s coinage for a given year and are a continuation of the decimal currency heritage introduced in 1966. For collectors, these sets function as archival-quality examples of circulating coinage, capturing the designs as they were struck at their absolute best. The 2011 set also reflects a period of continuity in Australia’s minting, with no major design overhauls or commemorative changes to distract from the enduring appeal of Devlin’s original work and Rank-Broadley’s elegant obverse portrait of the monarch.
Today, the Australia 6 Piece Proof Set 2011 remains a highly respected entry in the Royal Australian Mint’s series of annual releases. Its combination of technical perfection, limited availability, and timeless design ensures its place as a cornerstone in modern Australian numismatics. Whether part of a complete series of proof sets, a stand-alone showcase of fine minting, or a gift marking a milestone from 2011, this set offers lasting value, national symbolism, and the finest representation of Australia’s circulating coinage.