The 2006 Perth Mint $1 Silver Proof Coin commemorates the 80th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, marking a significant milestone in the life of one of the most recognisable figures of the modern era. Born as Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary at Buckingham Palace on 21 April 1926, she would later become Queen in 1952, shaping decades of Commonwealth history.

Struck by The Perth Mint in 1oz of .999 fine silver, this Proof-quality coin presents a polished, highly detailed finish suitable for collectors of royal-themed and Australian commemorative releases. The reverse features an official colour photograph of Queen Elizabeth II taken by George Bodnar, capturing her in a formal portrait that reflects the dignity and continuity of her long reign. Surrounding the image is the inscription HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II 80TH BIRTHDAY 21-4-2006, along with the Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

The obverse displays the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, reinforcing the coin’s historical context and its place within Australia’s numismatic tradition. With a limited mintage of 12,500, the release offers a well-presented tribute to a key royal anniversary, particularly appealing to collectors of Perth Mint silver issues and those with an interest in royal memorabilia.

As a 1oz silver Proof coin, produced to the Mint’s established standards of clarity and precision, the 2006 80th Birthday commemorative stands as a respectful acknowledgement of the Queen’s milestone year and a notable addition to themed or date-specific collections.