PRESS RELEASE: $50,000 Coin Design Competition Announced by Australian Coin Review

A modern revival of the legendary Swan Dollar competition

Australian Coin Review (ACR) has announced the launch of a landmark $50,000 Crown Design Competition, marking 60 years since the original design contest that produced one of Australia’s most iconic numismatic creations – the Swan Dollar.

In 1966, Australian Coin Review invited collectors and artists to submit designs for a new crown-sized coin. That competition captured the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide and ultimately gave birth to the Swan Dollar, a design that remains one of the most admired and sought-after issues in Australian numismatics.

Now, six decades later, ACR is running it back – with significantly higher stakes.
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The Crown Design Competition

The 2026–27 Crown Design Competition invites designers, collectors, artists, and enthusiasts to create a new coin design inspired by Australia, with a chance to win $50,000 AUD.

Prize Pool
• 1st Prize: $50,000 AUD
• 2nd Prize: $5,000 AUD
• 3rd Prize: $1,000 AUD

The winning design will be struck in various precious metals, creating a modern numismatic issue tied directly to this historic anniversary.
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The Design Brief

The theme of the competition remains aligned with the original 1966 brief, updated only to reflect the anniversary year.

“A design of any nature suitable to Australia, and the words AUSTRALIA 2027.”

Designs may draw inspiration from Australian flora, fauna, culture, food, history, or contemporary life. Entrants are encouraged to think creatively, while keeping designs simple, modern, and suitable for minting.

Key Requirements
• Both obverse and reverse designs are required
• A monarch portrait is not required
• No limit on the number of entries per entrant
• Designs must be capable of production using modern minting standards
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Entry Dates & Judging

• Entries open: 1 February 2026
• Entries close: 11:59pm AEST, 30 September 2026
• Winner announced: November 2026 issue of Australian Coin Review

Full terms and conditions are available on the ACR website.

How to Enter

Designs can be submitted online at www.australiancoinreview.com.au/competitions or emailed directly to: [email protected]

Further Information

For competition enquiries or magazine subscriptions, contact:

Australian Coin Review
e: [email protected]
p: (07) 3128 1131