150th Running of the Melbourne Cup
Since its humble beginnings in 1861, the Melbourne Cup has grown to become one of the biggest annual sporting events in Australia and one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.
To commemorate the 150th running of "the race that stops a nationTM" in collaboration with the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) The Royal Aaustralian Mint has produced three stunning coins. All of which will be highly sought collectibles.
2010 50c Selectively Gold Plated Two Coin SetThis set features two of the most enduring emblems of the Melbourne Cup – Phar lap and of the Melbourne Cup itself.
Selectively gold plating brings to life the stamina and speed of one of Australia's most famous race horses. Despite only winning one Melbourne Cup in 1930, Phar Lap became the darling of Australian race crowds during the Great Depression of the 1930's.
The Melbourne Cup remains one of the most coveted prizes in international horse racing and in 2010 a new gold trophy will be modelled on the 1930 Cup won by Phar Lap and presented to the 150th winner of the great race.
Denomination 50c
Metal Ag 99.9%
Mass 18.25g
Diameter 31.51mm
Finish Selectively Gold Plated
Mintage 5,000
Designer W. Pietranik