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An isolated nation with a vast interior, Australia had much to gain from the development of successful flying machines at the beginning of the 20th century. To promote interest in aviation, the Australian Aerial League invited Harry Houdini to demonstrate his flying skills while on tour here in 1910. The famous escapologist took-off at Diggers Rest, near Melbourne, on 18 March. A short flight of about a minute’s duration was followed by a second flight that saw him rise 100 feet, remaining airborne for almost five minutes. With a third successful attempt that day, Houdini is regarded as having completed the first sustained flight in Australia.
Proof Quality 99.9% Pure Silver
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of successful flight in Australia, this spectacular aviation commemorative is struck by The Perth Mint from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality.
Coloured Reverse Designs
The coin’s reverse depicts Houdini’s French-designed Voisin bi-plane in colour. The image overlays words from a typical poster publicising Houdini’s stunts. As well as The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark, the reverse includes the inscriptions ‘DIGGERS REST MARCH 18th 1910’ and ‘AUSTRALIAN CENTENARY of Flight’.
Australian Legal Tender
Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, the coin bears the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on its reverse.
Presentation Packaging
The coin is housed in a presentation case and illustrated shipper.
Numbered Certificate of Authenticity
A numbered Certificate of Authenticity accompanies each Set.
Limited Mintage
No more than 7,500 Sets will be released.
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