There is absolutely no doubt that the $1 / 10c 2000 Mule coin is the key coin in the Queen Elizabeth decimal series (Australian currency since 1966). Couple that with the fact that we will soon see a new monarch on Australian coins in the near future, the chance of a new sensation surpassing it before a new series is low.
When Prince Charles or William take over - either effigy will immediately grace our newly minted coins and instantly create a niche for "Lizzie" collectors and investors. (Based on assumptions from historical trends with Australian pre-decimal coins). The mule will quickly gain in value.
It is becoming evident that few examples of this rare coin are being found or "pulled from circulation" are only in Fine condition similar to the heavy degradation of any average Australian $1 coin of at least 10 years or older. The market is becoming aware of just how hard or (how expensive) acquiring an example in Ef or better will be in the near future.
There are many coin sites and forums offering information on this coin - try searching with the keywords: "2000 $1 / 10c Mule" or "Australian One Dollar Mule Coin".
Any quick search and you will discover the following:
The Royal Australian Mint has publicly admitted the error though it has no comment as to the number released.
But it's common knowledge...
The error was only discovered by Royal Australian Mint staff in the minting process after the coins were mixed into the vast hoppers of the day's fresh coins. They had been mixed with coins from other presses. The staff - (the word says the RAM were suffering staff shortages - they contracted temporary workers and thus the mistake of mis-matched dies in such a reputable Mint) panicked. The RAM has said that the staff tried to search and recover all of the "mules" but it was obvious that some had already been sent too far down the production process and into circulation.
It was very embarrassing for the RAM when the anomaly was discovered in 2003 - it was reported upon by several national news outlets. Coin collectors rejoiced and a "mule" rush was born in Western Australia where the majority were released into circulation. Many one dollar rolls were ripped apart in the hope of a pristine mule and thus a 2000 $1 roll now sells for over $600.
This coin could be in your wallet or purse now! It sells anywhere from $450 - $6000 Dollars so it may be worth learning more about this rare coin.
Learn more at http://www.dollarmule.com.au
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Locke
