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The Australia 6 Piece Proof Set 2013 Special Edition is a distinctive and expertly crafted numismatic release from the Royal Australian Mint, issued to honor the centenary of the Canberra region’s naming in 1913. This set stands out in the annual proof series for featuring a specially designed commemorative one-dollar coin that pays tribute to Australia’s capital city, Canberra, and its symbolic role as the political and cultural heart of the nation. Combining classic coinage design with a unique historical theme, the 2013 Special Edition proof set captures a moment of national significance through superior minting technology and artistic excellence.
The central highlight of this special edition is the one-dollar coin, created to commemorate 100 years since the name "Canberra" was officially chosen for the nation’s capital. Designed by Aleksandra Stokic, the reverse of the coin features a panoramic depiction of Parliament House, with the iconic flagpole prominently rising above the skyline. The design is flanked by stylized representations of native eucalyptus leaves, symbolizing Australia’s natural heritage. Arched along the top are the inscriptions “CENTENARY OF CANBERRA” and “1913–2013,” while “ONE DOLLAR” and “AUSTRALIA” frame the bottom edge. The obverse of the coin, like the rest in the set, features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, with the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II” and “AUSTRALIA 2013.”
Accompanying the commemorative one-dollar coin are five standard circulating coin denominations struck in brilliant proof quality: the 5 cent, 10 cent, 20 cent, 50 cent, and 2 dollar coins. These feature the timeless designs by Stuart Devlin, including the echidna (5c), lyrebird (10c), platypus (20c), Australian Coat of Arms (50c), and the Aboriginal elder with the Southern Cross (2 dollars). All coins are struck using polished dies and specially prepared blanks, producing mirror-like fields with sharply frosted devices. The proof format brings out extraordinary detail in each design, elevating everyday coinage into miniature works of art.
The 2013 Special Edition proof set is presented in a refined Royal Australian Mint leatherette display case in deep blue, featuring a velvet-lined interior with individual capsules for each coin. The set is further enclosed in a full-color outer box that reflects the centenary theme, often depicting architectural or symbolic elements related to Canberra. A numbered certificate of authenticity accompanies the set, confirming its specifications, limited mintage, and commemorative significance. The packaging enhances the set’s appeal to both numismatic collectors and those interested in Australian history and civic milestones.
The mintage for the 2013 Special Edition proof set was limited to just 12,000 units, making it one of the scarcer entries in the modern annual proof series. The exclusive one-dollar commemorative coin was not released into general circulation, appearing only in this and a few select collector issues, thereby increasing the set’s desirability among collectors who specialize in commemorative themes or limited-release coinage. The combination of thematic relevance, high production quality, and relative rarity ensures continued demand in the secondary market.
Condition is critical for collectors, and the 2013 Special Edition proof set is expected to remain in pristine condition when kept in its original packaging. The individual coin capsules protect against environmental damage, while the proof surfaces must remain free of spotting, haze, or fingerprints to retain full value. Some collectors opt to submit the commemorative dollar to grading services such as NGC or PCGS. Coins receiving PF69 or PF70 grades (indicating near-perfect or perfect quality) often fetch premiums, especially when sold with complete original packaging and certification intact.
Visually, the 2013 set is elegant and well balanced, with the commemorative dollar coin offering both artistic and symbolic richness. The image of Parliament House rising from a eucalyptus-bordered landscape serves as a powerful representation of democratic governance and national unity. The frosted motifs stand out crisply against the mirror-polished background, emphasizing depth and contrast. The supporting coins in the set complement the centerpiece with familiar and beloved Australian designs that appear at their most refined in proof format. The overall presentation is one of harmony, significance, and technical perfection.
Historically, the naming of Canberra in 1913 represented a critical moment in Australia’s post-Federation identity. As the new capital city, Canberra was selected as a neutral location between rivals Sydney and Melbourne and would later grow into a center of national government, culture, and diplomacy. The 2013 Special Edition proof set celebrates the city’s centenary not merely as a geographic event, but as a reflection of Australia's maturation as an independent, unified nation. The coin serves as a reminder of how the city’s planned construction and symbolic architecture are intertwined with the country’s democratic values.
Today, the Australia 6 Piece Proof Set 2013 Special Edition continues to be a sought-after release among collectors of modern Australian coinage, commemoratives, and themed proof sets. Its combination of low mintage, unique historical focus, exclusive coin design, and superior quality ensures that it retains strong market value and collector interest. Whether part of a complete annual proof set collection or treasured for its commemoration of Canberra’s centenary, this set embodies the best traditions of the Royal Australian Mint—celebrating national pride, artistic achievement, and the power of coins to preserve meaningful moments in history.