2011 Dame Joan Sutherland $1 Uncirculated Coin. The Royal Australian Mint's Inspirational Australians series commemorates people who have made an extraordinary contribution to society. On 10 October 2010, the world bid farewell to a truly inspirational Australian; opera luminary Dame Joan Sutherland. Hailed La Stupenda by a Venetian audience after a 1960 performance of Handel's Alcina, Dame Joan effortlessly reigned over many international stages during her 40 year career. She was the recipient of countless awards, including Australian of the Year in 1961, before her last public performance at London's Covent Garden on 31 December 1990 at the age of 64. Mintage unlimited.