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Valuable ‘Spew Roo’ Coins: A Collector’s Find
Recent discoveries in the world of coin collecting have highlighted a peculiar variant of Australia’s $1 gold coins known as ‘spew roo’ coins, which have gained some attention for their unique minting error. This quirk makes them potentially more valuable than their statutory face value.
What’s a ‘Spew Roo’ Coin?
The term ‘spew roo’ refers to a specific minting error where an additional lump of metal appears beneath the mouth of the top kangaroo depicted on the coin, giving the impression that the kangaroo has ‘spewed’. Michael McCauley, a self-described coin enthusiast from Victoria, recently stumbled upon one of these unusual coins, which typically trade for between $5 to $10 on the collector’s market.
McCauley explains that this error is the result of a flaw in the minting process, leading to what are known as ‘cuds.’ These cuds manifest as a raised blob of metal on the coin, which has become a hallmark of this specific error.
Collectibility and Market Value
Collectors often search for ‘spew roo’ coins due to their rarity. In addition to the distinctive look of the error, the value of these coins can vary depending on several factors. McCauley notes that aspects such as the overall condition of the coin, the prominence of the error, and the mint year can all influence its market price.
He advises vigilant collectors to scan through coins carefully. “You can find them across virtually any mint date, so it’s worth taking your time when searching for these rarities,” he suggests.
Other Noteworthy Minting Errors
Aside from the ‘spew roo’, there are several other significant mint error coins that enthusiasts may want to keep an eye out for:
- Backpack Roo: This variation features an additional piece of metal running across the back of the top kangaroo.
- Rabbit Ears: A similarly curious error where the outline of the top kangaroo’s ears appears exaggerated or ‘floppy’.
- 2015 Kangaroo Coin: In a peculiar twist, a specific coin from 2015 displays a third kangaroo missing its leg beneath its belly.
McCauley notes that the 2015 coin can command a selling price in the range of $2 to $10, highlighting the growing interest among collectors for these distinctive variants.
Conclusion
The ‘spew roo’ coins serve as a reminder of the charm and quirks found within coin collecting. Their unique characteristics not only make them fascinating but also provide a means for collectors to engage with Australia’s numismatic history. For those interested in building their collection or simply exploring the world of currency errors, keeping an eye out for such coins could be both rewarding and intriguing.
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