COIN, AUSTRALIAN - HALF PENNY 1945

Before the introduction of decimal currency with dollars and cents Australia’s currency was based on the imperial style pound, shilling, and pence. One Australian pound was divided into 20 shillings which was then divided into 12 pence. The new simplified currency would allow for quicker everyday transactions and increase efficiency in financial institutions. Featuring influential figures and native Australian animals the new currency allowed for a distinctly Australian look.

The full stop at the end of the [Y] in [PENNY] indicates this coin was minted at the Perth Mint.