2001 Centenary of Federation, State Proof Three Coin Set, Queensland. The State of Queensland was once part of the vast British Colony of New South Wales. Brisbane was originally established in 1825 as a penal settlement for more intractable convicts, but the prison was officially closed in 1839 and subsequently land was prepared for sale for permanent settlement in the Moreton Bay District. As Queensland's economic significance increased and its population expanded, a separate sense of identity emerged in the north. The distance from the centre of the government in New South Wales and disquiet with the development and maintenance of public infrastructure contributed to the desire for self government. In 1851 a public meeting was held to consider Queensland's separation from New South Wales. Queen Victoria gave her approval and signed Letters Patent on 6 June 1859 to establish the new colony of Queensland. Certificate of Authenticity is included with this set numbered 865. Nominal Specifications, 20 cent Metal Cupro Nickel, Weight 11.30 grams, Diameter 28.52 mm. 50 cent Metal Cupro Nickel, Weight 15.55 grams, Diameter 31.51 mm. $1 Metal Aluminium Bronze, Weight 9.00 grams, Diameter 25.00 mm. Please contact Adelaide Exchange Jewellers to find out more on this item.