Shilling 1910, Coin from Australia - detailed information

Crowned and robed bust of King Edward VII facing right; the King is wearing the Imperial Crown, the ermine Robe of State and the Collar of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath.

Below the bust truncation, in small letters are the artist's initials DES (for [George William] de Saulles).

Around, the monarch's legend: EDWARDVS VII D:G: BRITT. OMN: REX F: D: IND: IMP: ·. Translated from Latin: Edward the Seventh, by the Grace of God, King of all the Britains, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India.

The reverse features the Ensigns Armorial of the Commonwealth of Australia, as authorised by Royal Warrant 7th May 1908.

At centre, simple shield enclosing a cross of Saint George on which are five six-pointed stars, around the outside of which are six small escutcheons (small shields). The shield is supported by a kangaroo and an emu standing on a grassy mound. Above the shield a crest, the seven-pointed star of Federation on a wreath and on a ribbon at the base, the motto ADVANCE AUSTRALIA is inscribed.

Around above, the value and denomination ONE SHILLING; below, between arrow heads, the date 1910.

1910 was the first year that an Australian Commonwealth coinage was issued. The four silver denominations were all struck in London. The shilling was the first denomination issued.