1974 Australian 20 Cent Coin Value Guide

The 1974 Australian 20 cent coin is a staple of the early decimal era, featuring the iconic platypus design by Stuart Devlin. It is highly collectible for those completing date sets of the Arnold Machin portrait series, which spanned from 1966 to 1984.

What affects the value of 1974 Australian 20 Cent Coin?

• Lustre and surface preservation, as coins with original mint bloom command higher prices.
• Presence of bag marks or circulation wear, which typically limits value to the $1-$2 range.
• Strike quality, particularly the fine details on the platypus fur and the Queen's hair.
• The presence of any rare minting errors or die cracks which can occasionally increase collector interest.

How to Identify 1974 Australian 20 Cent Coin?

• Verify the obverse features the second effigy of Queen Elizabeth II wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara.
• Check the reverse for the detailed platypus design with the 'SD' artist initials for Stuart Devlin.
• Confirm the composition is cupro-nickel, giving the coin its distinct silver-colored appearance.
• Look for the specific '1974' date stamp located on the obverse side below the Queen's portrait.

History of 1974 Australian 20 Cent Coin

The Australian 20 cent coin was introduced in 1966 with the conversion to decimal currency. The platypus design on the reverse, created by Stuart Devlin, has remained a constant feature, symbolizing Australia's unique wildlife. The obverse features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, which has changed several times over her reign, with the one seen here being the Arnold Machin design, used from 1966 to 1984.