Thousands of Australians may be unknowingly carrying a valuable coin in their pocket, according to numismatists. The 2021 'Mob of Roos' $1 coin, which appears unremarkable, is becoming a sought-after item among collectors due to its rarity.
Perth numismatist Joel Kandiah stated that this particular coin has been selling for approximately $20, about 20 times its face value. He described it as the most overlooked Australian coin, noting its rarity compared to colored $2 coins, which often garner more attention. "With a mintage of just 160,000, it's widely regarded as Australia's lowest-minted standard circulating coin," Kandiah explained. He added that recent online sales valuing the coin at around $20 are considered undervalued given its scarcity.
Kandiah attributes the coin's overlooked status to its lack of distinguishing features. "It doesn't have bright colours or a commemorative design drawing attention to it, which is probably why it's flown under the radar for so long," he said, emphasizing that this highlights the potential for finding treasures in everyday change.
A New Design Emerges
The Royal Australian Mint recently introduced a limited-edition $1 circulating coin featuring a modified design. This new version, dubbed the 'Mob of Six Roos,' adds a sixth kangaroo to the classic design to commemorate six decades since the introduction of dollars and cents in Australia in 1966. All $1 coins dated 2026 will feature this special design.
"The 2026 'Mob of Six Roos' $1 coin is a really clever release," Kandiah commented. "It marks 60 years of decimal currency in Australia, with a sixth kangaroo added to Stuart Devlin's classic $1 design - one kangaroo for each decade since coins were introduced."
While there is speculation within collecting circles that around eight million of the six-kangaroo version will be minted, no official confirmation from the Royal Australian Mint has been released. Many individuals have already reported finding these coins in circulation.
After 2026, production of the $1 coin is set to revert to the original five-kangaroo design.
Collectibility and Value
Regarding the value of the six-kangaroo coin, Kandiah noted that while it is collectible, most examples found in circulation are likely to remain close to face value in the short term because it has been widely distributed. "Uncirculated examples from rolls are already selling for a few dollars online, but that reflects convenience and condition more than true rarity," he said. The main appeal lies in it being the first significant alteration to the standard $1 'Mob of Roos' design since 1984, and its availability for only one year.
Kandiah advises that long-term value will depend on the coin's condition and its final mintage numbers. For now, he suggests keeping any found specimens, especially those in good condition, but cautions against overspending to acquire them.
He recommends keeping an eye out for both the rare 2021 $1 coin and the 2026 version with the extra kangaroo, as they may increase in value over time.