In an important milestone for both the Royal Australian Mint and the Solomon Islands, the first-ever Solomon Islands $1 coin featuring the effigy of King Charles III was minted this week. The Royal Australian Mint’s new coin is a symbol of the strong and enduring relationship between Australia and the Solomon Islands.
A Historic Coining Ceremony
On Monday, the Governor of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands, Dr. Luke Forau, joined the Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Australia, Robert Sisilo, and Deputy High Commissioner Trevor Ramoni on the factory floor to witness the minting of the first coin. This official coining ceremony marked a significant moment in the ongoing partnership between the Royal Australian Mint and the Solomon Islands.
Design and Symbolism of the New Coin
The new coin’s obverse prominently features the effigy of King Charles III, designed by renowned artist Daniel Thorne. This same design is also used on Australia’s circulating coins. The words “Charles III l Solomon Islands 2025” are engraved alongside the portrait.
The reverse of the coin showcases the Nguzu Nguzu symbol, a traditional motif representing good luck and protection. This image has appeared on the Solomon Islands $1 coin since 2012 and is an important cultural symbol for the nation. The reverse also includes the words “One Dollar.”
Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Ties
The new coin is not just a piece of currency, but a reflection of the deep diplomatic and economic ties between the Solomon Islands and Australia. The Assistant Minister for Treasury, the Hon Andrew Leigh MP, praised the Mint’s work in the Pacific, noting that coins are just one example of the growing relationship between the two countries. He said, “Australia’s Mint now makes coins for multiple countries – a sign of their high standing in the international community.”
The Royal Australian Mint’s Executive Manager Operations, Colin Dedourek, emphasized the long-term benefits of working with Pacific Island nations like the Solomon Islands. “The Mint is honored to supply new circulating coinage to our Pacific Island neighbors, and we are proud to be trusted with such an important historical change, like the change in effigy,” he said.
Other Countries Trusting the Royal Australian Mint
The Royal Australian Mint also produces coins for other countries in the Oceania region, including Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, Cook Islands, Timor-Leste, and Papua New Guinea. This ongoing collaboration highlights the Mint’s reputation for high-quality coin production and its commitment to fostering strong international relationships.
Minting Foreign Currency for the Pacific
Minting foreign currency is a key aspect of the Royal Australian Mint’s operations. Over the past decade, producing coins for other countries accounted for 8% of the Mint’s circulating coin revenue and 25% of its total coin shipments. The Mint is currently in discussions with Papua New Guinea to produce a coin to mark the 50th anniversary of the country’s Declaration of Independence in 2025.
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About the Royal Australian Mint
The Royal Australian Mint is a world-class institution that produces circulating coins for Australia and other countries, as well as collectible and investment coins. It is a global leader in the minting industry and plays a vital role in educating the public about the significance of coins and Australia’s decimal currency. The Mint also creates custom-made medals, medallions, and tokens for individual and corporate clients.
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