2003 Square Penny Concept Set Proof

3 Coins - Square Silver Half Ounce 50c Proof Kookaburra, matched with 2 genuine Australian pennies.

In 1919, the Commonwealth Government considered replacing its bulky bronze halfpennies and pennies with small lighter nickel coins. Between 1919 and 1921, a number of square prototypes, or pattern pennies, were struck in Melbourne, each depicting the nation's best known native bird - the Kookaburra. 

The patterns were, however, never officially circulated. A combination of technical problems and resistance from, among others, the elderly who felt they were too small, effectively sidelined the idea for 80 years.