AUSTRALIAN COINS 92.5% STERLING SILVER...

Here's a detailed report of Australian coins containing 92.5% silver (sterling silver), covering denominations, years of issue, silver weight, and historical context.

Australia used 92.5% silver in its circulating coinage from 1910 to 1945. This was replaced with 50% silver in 1946 due to rising silver prices post-WWII. These coins were issued under the reigns of Edward VII, George V, and George VI.

DenominationYears IssuedMonarchsCompositionSilver Content (approx.)Threepence1910–1944Edward VII, George V, George VI92.5% Silver, 7.5% Copper~0.042 troy ozSixpence1910–1945Edward VII, George V, George VI92.5% Silver, 7.5% Copper~0.084 troy ozShilling1910–1945Edward VII, George V, George VI92.5% Silver, 7.5% Copper~0.168 troy ozFlorin (2/-)1910–1945Edward VII, George V, George VI92.5% Silver, 7.5% Copper~0.336 troy ozCrown (5/-)1937–1938 onlyGeorge VI92.5% Silver, 7.5% Copper~0.454 troy oz  

• Smallest silver coin.
   
• Used extensively in day-to-day transactions.
   
• 1910 coins are scarce (Edward VII, single year).
   

• Worn commonly due to circulation.
   
• Some dates, like 1918 and 1923, are rarer in high grade.
   

• Known for iconic ram reverse (George VI, 1938–1945).
   
• Earlier types show national coat of arms.
   

• Highest denomination in circulation until the Crown.
   
• 1927 Canberra Florin is a key commemorative.
   

• Only two years issued: 1937 and 1938.
   
• Large, heavy, with George VI and royal regalia reverse.
   
• Low mintage makes it collectible.
   

• 1910: Australia’s first national silver coins after federation.
   
• 1927: First commemorative (Canberra Florin).
   
• 1937–1938: Crowns issued to promote silver currency and mark coronation.
   
• 1946: Due to wartime silver shortages, the silver content dropped to 50%.
   

Based on 2025 spot silver (~AUD $36/troy oz):

Coin Melt Value (Approx.)Threepence AUD ~$1.50SixpenceAUD ~$3.00ShillingAUD ~$6.00FlorinAUD ~$12.00CrownAUD ~$16.30  

• Key dates: 1910 coins, 1921-22 overdates, 1927 Florin, 1938 Crown.
   
• Condition is crucial—uncirculated coins can fetch far more than melt value.
   
• Errors & variants (e.g., 1922/21 overdate threepence) are highly sought after.