2005 $1 Proof Subscription Silver Coin, 1855 Sydney Half Sovereign (reproduction gold plated). This 2005 Proof Coin commemorates the 150th Anniversary of The First Australian Half Sovereign. Australia's first coins provide a fascinating insight into the lives and events of the period. The Great Gold Rushes and an emerging nation provide the context for coinage in Australia from 1855, but their history has much earlier roots and is very much connected to Britain. The 1855 Australian sovereign and half sovereing were the first sovereigns to be minted outside Britain. They were introduced at a time when the Gold Rush was shaping Australia's future and when there was a shortage of coins throughout the British Empire. Despite its British origins the 1855 Australian sovereigns and half sovereigns were distinctly Australian since they featured the words "Sydney Mint" and "Australia" on the reverse. Certificate of Authenticity is included with this coin numbered 4632. Please contact Adelaide Exchange Jewellers to find out more on this item.