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The Australia 1/2 Penny 1936 KM#22 AU represents an essential chapter in the numismatic history of Australia during the interwar period. Minted in a time of global economic recovery following the Great Depression, this coin was part of the everyday currency that facilitated commerce and trade within the growing economy of Australia. The half penny, often used in small transactions, was crucial for the ordinary citizen during an era marked by recovery and growth.
The design of the 1936 half penny features King George V on the obverse, a portrait that symbolizes Australia’s ties to the British Commonwealth during his reign. The King’s image, designed by Sir Edgar Bertram Mackennal, an Australian sculptor, is a nod to the shared history and culture between the UK and Australia. On the reverse, the coin features the iconic image of a kangaroo in motion, encircled by the denomination and the word "Australia." This imagery not only underscores the coin’s Australian identity but also celebrates the country’s unique fauna and artistic flair.
The mintage of the 1936 half penny was robust, reflecting its role as a staple of daily financial transactions in Australia. Despite this high mintage, finding coins from this year in AU (Almost Uncirculated) condition remains a challenge due to the extensive circulation and usage over the years. Coins that have survived in such a state are particularly prized for their rarity and the high level of detail they maintain, which offers a clearer window into the coinage practices and aesthetic choices of the time.
The condition of this specific coin, rated as Almost Uncirculated, indicates that it has only minimal wear on the highest points of the design but retains most of its original mint luster and detail. This high grade is significant, allowing the intricate details of Mackennal’s design and the reverse kangaroo motif to be appreciated fully. The slight wear does not detract but rather adds a layer of authenticity and historical weight, showcasing the coin’s journey through Australian hands over decades.
An interesting fact about Australia in 1936 is that it was a period of significant political and social change, with the country gradually moving towards greater economic and political independence from Britain. The coins from this era encapsulate these transformations, serving not only as monetary instruments but also as artefacts of a pivotal period in Australia’s development as a nation. Thus, the 1936 half penny does more than represent monetary value; it also echoes the historical and cultural shifts occurring in Australia at the time.
In summary, the Australia 1/2 Penny 1936 KM#22 AU is more than a mere piece of change; it is a testament to Australia's rich historical tapestry during the early 20th century. Its preservation, design, and the historical context of its creation offer a fascinating glimpse into the economic and cultural life of Australia during a time of significant change and growth. For collectors and historians alike, this coin holds a special value, bridging the past with the present through its enduring material and historical significance.