Item Description
 
The 2016 Australia Dirk Hartog Centenary 1616 Silver Proof Coin was issued by the Perth Mint to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first recorded European landing on the Australian continent. In October 1616, Dutch navigator Dirk Hartog arrived on the western coast of Australia aboard the ship Eendracht, marking a significant moment in the early exploration of the region.
 
To honor this historic milestone, the Perth Mint produced this remarkable commemorative coin struck from 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver. The coin features an innovative concave minting format paired with high-relief engraving, creating a striking visual depth rarely seen in modern numismatics. The concave surfaces on both the obverse and reverse enhance the metal flow during striking, allowing for sharper detail and dramatic sculptural relief.
 
With an extremely limited mintage of just 3,000 coins worldwide, this proof issue stands as a highly collectible piece that blends historical storytelling with advanced minting craftsmanship. Its combination of limited availability, innovative design, and historic significance makes it an appealing acquisition for collectors of world silver coins and maritime exploration themes.
 
Round Highlights
 
Contains 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver
 
Issued by The Perth Mint
 
Extremely limited mintage of only 3,000 coins worldwide
 
Struck in Proof condition with high-relief detail
 
Unique concave obverse and reverse design
 
Denomination: $1 Australian Dollar
 
Design Details
 
Obverse
 
The obverse features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II along with the coin’s denomination and issuing country, affirming its status as legal tender of Australia. The concave surface enhances the portrait’s sculptural depth while maintaining the refined finish expected of a proof strike.
 
Reverse
 
The reverse presents a detailed scene viewed through a telescope, depicting Dirk Hartog’s ship Eendracht sailing across the ocean. A compass rose appears alongside the ship, emphasizing the navigational achievements of early explorers. The inscription “October 1616” appears in the exergue, commemorating the historic landing. The concave high-relief strike amplifies the sense of depth, giving the design a dramatic, dimensional appearance.