2004 1oz $5 150 YEARS OF STEAM RAILWAYS IN AUSTRALIA FINE SILVER PROOF COIN

150 YEARS OF STEAM RAILWAYS IN AUSTRALIA

Celebrating 150 years of Steam Railways in Australia with the release of a $5 silver Proof Coin on 23 August, the Royal Australian Mint will recognise a significant milestone in Australia's history.

With the longest stretch of straight railway line in the world, railways hold a special place in Australia. This service has helped shape the nation by opening up passenger and freight routes.

In a fitting tribute the Royal Australian Mint has produced a design that compliments the beginning of railways in Australia. Vladimir Gottwald's depiction of a steam train emerging from the Australian landscape recognises the significance of this event in the development of the country.

A 150 years ago the Hobson's Bay Railway Company's first steam train left on the 4 kilometre journey from Flinders Street to Port Melbourne on 12 September 1854. Today Australia has an extensive railway system that links the country.

SPECIFICATIONS

Denomination: $5

Metal: 99.9%

Mass: 1 Troy oz

Diameter: 40.00 mm

Finish: Proof

Mintage: 15,000