George V copper-nickel Pattern "Kookaburra" Penny 1921 MS66 NGC, Melbourne mint, KM-Pn21, Rennik-T12E, McDonald-13/R12. 18mm. By Sir Bertram Mackennal. A classic rarity of Australian numismatics, the Kookaburra pattern pennies of 1919 to 1921 are perhaps the most recognizable designs in the series, even if most collectors are never afforded the opportunity to obtain an example. Part of an effort to replace what was considered the bulky bronze penny coinage of the country, these patterns, though successfully cutting the weight for the penny in half, ultimately failed to gain traction, with the costs of importing the nickel, and of retooling vending machine mechanisms, ultimately faced cancellation and were never produced for circulation. As such, though assigned a Mint State designation, this is more properly a specimen strike. In either case, the beauty of the offering is undisputable, with its exceedingly gem grade being not only the finest for the type, but the finest for all varieties yet certified by NGC.

HID09801242017

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