1945 Penny Australia Value
January 19, 2026
So, you’ve stumbled upon an old Australian penny from 1945 and are wondering what it might be worth? It’s a common question, and the truth is, the 1945 penny Australia value can swing quite a bit. It’s not just about the year; a bunch of things play a role in how much your coin is actually worth. The 1945 penny Australia value depends on several factors, including its condition, rarity, and any unique features.
Let’s break down what makes one of these little copper coins more valuable than another.
So, you’ve got a 1945 Australian penny, and you’re wondering what it’s worth? It’s a fair question, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. The 1945 penny Australia value really depends on a few key things, mostly its condition and where it was minted.
Generally speaking, the 1945 penny is considered a relatively common coin for its era. Over 10 million were produced at the Perth Mint, which means they aren’t exactly rare in the grand scheme of things. However, ‘common’ doesn’t mean ‘worthless’. Even circulated coins can fetch a few dollars, while uncirculated examples can be worth significantly more.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might expect:
It’s important to remember these are just estimates. The actual 1945 penny Australia value can fluctuate based on collector demand and the specific market at the time.
While most 1945 pennies are from the Perth Mint and are quite common, there’s a very specific, extremely rare variety from the Melbourne Mint. These are exceptionally scarce and highly sought after by serious collectors, fetching prices far beyond the typical circulated coin.
When you’re looking at the 1945 penny Australia value, keep an eye on the details. The condition is king, but sometimes, a tiny detail can make a huge difference.
Right, let’s talk about the 1945 Australian penny. It’s a bit of a historical marker, you know? This little coin was minted during a pretty significant time – the tail end of World War II. It’s part of the George VI series, which ran from 1938 until 1952. These pennies, like their British counterparts, were made of bronze and were a common sight in wallets and cash registers across the country.
What’s interesting is how these coins fit into the bigger picture of Australian currency. Before decimalisation in 1966, Australia used the pound, shilling, and pence system. The penny was the smallest unit, with 12 pence making a shilling and 20 shillings making a pound. So, a 1945 penny was worth 1/240th of a pound. Pretty wild when you think about it now, right?
Most of the 1945 pennies you’ll find were actually made at the Perth Mint. They churned out over 15 million of them, which is why they’re generally not super rare. However, there’s a bit of a twist that makes some collectors go wild.
The 1945 penny, while common from the Perth Mint, holds a special place in numismatic history. It represents the end of a global conflict and the beginning of a new era for Australia. Its value isn’t just in its metal or its age, but in the stories it could tell if it could talk.
Here’s a quick rundown of what was happening around the time:
So, when you’re looking at a 1945 penny, you’re not just holding a piece of metal; you’re holding a tangible link to a very specific moment in Australian history. It’s a coin that saw the world change dramatically.
When you’re looking at a 1945 Australian penny, it’s interesting to know who was behind its design. The bloke who designed the King George VI side (that’s the front of the coin, with the King’s head) was Thomas Humphrey Paget. He was a pretty well-known engraver, and his work on British coins is quite recognisable.
On the flip side, the reverse of the coin, which features the kangaroo, was designed by George Kruger Grey. He was an artist who did a fair bit of work for the Royal Mint, not just on coins but also on medals. His kangaroo design is pretty iconic for Australian coinage.
So, why does this matter for the value of your 1945 penny? Well, for the most part, the designers themselves don’t directly add a huge amount to the value of a common year like 1945. It’s more about the overall quality of the design and how well it’s executed. A well-struck coin where you can clearly see all the details from Paget’s and Grey’s work will always be worth more than one that’s worn down or poorly struck.
However, sometimes, specific design elements or variations can become significant. For instance, there are notes about a “dot after the Y in ‘PENNY'” on some Perth Mint coins from this era. These little details, while part of the original design intent or a minting variation, can sometimes be what collectors look for. It’s not so much about the designer’s name at that point, but about the specific variety of the coin.
Here’s a quick rundown of the designers:
While the designers are important figures in numismatic history, for a coin like the 1945 penny, their direct impact on the value is usually overshadowed by factors like mintage, condition, and any rare errors or varieties that might exist. It’s the execution of their designs on the coin that truly counts for collectors.
When we talk about the 1945 Australian penny, it’s a bit of a tale of two cities, or rather, two mints. Most of the 1945 pennies you’ll come across were churned out by the Perth Mint. We’re talking over 10 million of them, so if you’ve got a 1945 penny with a little dot after the ‘Y’ in ‘PENNY’, that’s your Perth Mint coin. These are generally common and won’t fetch a fortune unless they’re in absolutely mint condition.
But here’s where it gets interesting. The Melbourne Mint also struck pennies in 1945, but in incredibly small numbers. We’re not talking millions here; we’re talking about just four coins. These were apparently made to test new master tools before the Perth Mint got going. The Melbourne Mint kept these four coins for themselves, and they’ve become legendary in Australian numismatics. These four Melbourne Mint 1945 pennies are considered Australia’s rarest pennies.
So, while the vast majority of 1945 pennies are quite common, the existence of those four from Melbourne makes the date incredibly significant. It’s a classic case of rarity driving value, and in this instance, the rarity is off the charts for those specific coins.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
The distinction between the Perth and Melbourne mintages is the key to understanding the 1945 penny’s place in Australian coin collecting. While the common Perth issues are readily available, the elusive Melbourne strikes represent a pinnacle of rarity, making them the true treasures for serious collectors.
Because of this huge difference in mintage, the value of a 1945 penny can swing wildly. A standard circulated coin from Perth might be worth a few dollars, but a pristine uncirculated example could be worth significantly more. The Melbourne coins, however, are in a league of their own, fetching prices that reflect their extreme scarcity and historical importance.
Alright, so you’ve got a 1945 Australian penny, and you’re wondering what it’s actually worth. Well, one of the biggest things that’s going to make a difference is its condition. It’s not just about whether it’s old; it’s about how well it’s held up over the years.
Think of it like this: a coin that’s been tossed around in pockets for decades is going to look a lot different from one that’s been tucked away safely in a collector’s album. The ones that look almost brand new, with all the details sharp and clear, are naturally going to fetch a higher price. We’re talking about coins that haven’t lost their shine or had their designs worn down.
Here’s a rough idea of how condition plays a part:
So, when you’re looking at your 1945 penny, check out the details. Are the lines on King George VI’s hair still crisp? Can you clearly see the kangaroo leaping on the reverse? Is there any damage like scratches, nicks, or bent edges? All these little things add up. A coin that’s been cleaned, for instance, can lose a lot of its appeal and value because it often looks unnatural.
The physical state of a coin is paramount to its worth. Even minor imperfections can significantly alter its market value, especially for older currencies like the 1945 Australian penny. Collectors are generally looking for pieces that have retained their original appearance and detail as much as possible, reflecting a history of careful preservation rather than rough handling.
Alright, so you’ve got a 1945 Australian penny, and you’re wondering what it’s actually worth. Well, a big part of that comes down to its condition, and that’s where coin grading comes in. Think of it like this: a brand new car is worth more than one that’s been thrashed around for years, right? Same deal with coins.
Grading basically gives a score for how worn a coin is. The less wear and tear, the higher the grade, and generally, the more money it’s worth. It’s not just about whether it’s got scratches; it’s about the fine details, the sharpness of the design, and how much of the original mint shine is still there.
Here’s a quick rundown of the common grading terms you’ll see:
The difference between a circulated and an uncirculated 1945 penny can be massive in terms of value.
When you’re looking at your penny, try to see how much of the original detail is left. Are the lines on the kangaroo’s fur still clear? Can you easily read the ‘AUSTRALIA’ and ‘PENNY’ text? Even tiny things like the sharpness of King George VI’s hair can make a difference. It’s these little things that a trained eye will pick up on.
Grading isn’t just about looking at a coin; it’s about comparing it to a standard. Experts use detailed guides and often have special tools like magnifying glasses to spot wear that the naked eye might miss. It’s a whole system designed to be as fair and consistent as possible, so everyone knows what they’re looking at when they talk about a coin’s condition.
So, before you get too excited about that old penny, give it a good look. Is it a bit worn from being passed around for years, or does it look like it’s been sitting in a collection box since 1945? That’s the key question for figuring out its worth.
When you’re looking at a 1945 Australian penny, understanding what it’s made of and how much it weighs is pretty straightforward. These coins are part of the bronze penny series that Australia used for a long time.
The standard composition for the 1945 Australian penny is bronze. This means it’s a mix of copper and tin, giving it that familiar reddish-brown colour. It’s a pretty durable metal, which is why so many of these old coins have survived.
Here are the basic specs:
These specifications were pretty consistent across the years for the bronze pennies. It’s not like they were changing the recipe every other year. So, if you pick up a 1945 penny, you can be pretty sure it’s going to feel like a penny, weigh like a penny, and look like a penny, all thanks to its bronze makeup.
It’s worth noting that while the vast majority of 1945 pennies were made from bronze, there are extremely rare proof versions, particularly from the Melbourne Mint, that might have slightly different specifications or finishes due to their special production. However, for the everyday circulating coin, bronze is the standard.
Knowing the weight and composition isn’t usually the biggest factor in determining a coin’s value, unless you’re dealing with a rare error where the metal is wrong or something. For most collectors, it’s just good to know the basics of what you’re holding.
When you’re looking at a 1945 Australian penny, the mint where it was made can make a massive difference to its worth. It’s not just a case of ‘any old penny’.
Most 1945 pennies you’ll find were actually struck at the Perth Mint. They made a fair few of them, over 10 million, so these aren’t usually the super-rare ones. You can usually spot a Perth penny because there’s a little dot after the word ‘PENNY’ on the reverse side. These are generally common, and their value depends a lot on their condition, ranging from a dollar or two for a well-worn one up to maybe $65 or more for a really nice, uncirculated coin.
But here’s where it gets interesting. There’s a tiny handful of 1945 pennies that were made at the Melbourne Mint. We’re talking really tiny – only four are known to have been produced. These weren’t for general circulation; they were made to test new equipment before the main production run started in Perth. The Melbourne Mint kept these four coins, and they’ve become legendary in Australian numismatics. These Melbourne-minted 1945 pennies are considered Australia’s rarest pennies.
Because so few exist and they were kept by the mint, these Melbourne coins are incredibly valuable. One of these rare proof coins, previously held in the Museum of Victoria’s collection, sold for a staggering $150,000 in 2021. That’s a world away from the value of a common Perth penny!
So, how do you tell the difference?
It’s a classic case of rarity driving value. While the vast majority of 1945 pennies are common due to high mintage numbers at the Perth Mint, the few produced at the Melbourne Mint represent a unique historical footnote and are highly sought after by collectors willing to pay a premium for such extreme scarcity.
When you’re looking at the value of a 1945 Australian penny, the condition it’s in makes a massive difference. Think of it like a well-loved book versus a brand-new one – the new one is generally worth more, right? It’s the same with coins.
Basically, coins are graded on how worn they are. A coin that’s been jingling around in pockets for years will have visible wear, scratches, and maybe even nicks. These are called ‘circulated’ coins. On the other hand, an ‘uncirculated’ coin has never been used as money. It looks just as it did when it left the mint, with all its original shine and detail intact.
The jump in value from a circulated penny to a truly uncirculated one can be quite dramatic.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might expect, though remember these are just estimates and actual prices can swing based on demand and where you’re selling:
| Grade Description | Estimated Value (AUD) |
| Very Good (VG) | $1 |
| Fine (F) | $3 |
| Very Fine (VF) | $7 |
| Extremely Fine (EF) | $20 |
| About Uncirculated (aUNC) | $65 |
| Uncirculated (UNC) | $155+ |
So, what makes a coin ‘uncirculated’? It means it hasn’t been handled by the public. No scratches from being dropped, no wear on the high points of the design, and it should still have its original mint lustre. For a 1945 penny, finding one in top-notch uncirculated condition is pretty special.
Even a coin that looks pretty good to the untrained eye might have subtle wear that collectors and dealers can spot. Things like the shine on the highest points of the design, the sharpness of the details, and the absence of any bag marks or scratches are what separate a really high-grade coin from one that’s just okay. It’s all about preserving that original mint state.
When you’re assessing your own 1945 penny, look closely. Are the details sharp? Is there any wear on King George VI’s hair or the kangaroo’s legs? Does it still have that bright, original mint shine? The answers to these questions will give you a good clue about its grade and, therefore, its worth.
While most 1945 pennies are pretty common, there are a few special cases that can really bump up the value. These aren’t your everyday coins; they’re the ones that collectors get really excited about.
The biggest game-changer for a 1945 penny’s worth is usually a minting error. Think about it, these coins are made by the millions, so when something goes wrong at the mint, it’s a big deal. One of the most talked-about errors involves the mint mark. Most 1945 pennies were struck at the Perth Mint, and you can usually spot this by a small dot after the word ‘PENNY’ on the reverse. However, a tiny number were struck at the Melbourne Mint, and these lack the dot. These Melbourne-struck coins are significantly rarer.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to look for:
It’s important to note that not all ‘errors’ are created equal. Some are quite common and don’t add much value, while others are incredibly rare and highly sought after. For instance, a truly exceptional error coin, like a double-sided strike, is exceptionally rare and commands a very high price. You might even find a rare 1945 ‘Y’ Penny that’s a genuine double-sided error, making it a standout piece.
Identifying these varieties requires a keen eye and often a bit of research. Comparing your coin to known examples and understanding the typical minting process for the year is key. Don’t assume every little mark is an error; sometimes it’s just wear and tear.
When you’re looking at a 1945 penny, especially if you suspect it’s an error or variety, condition still plays a huge role. Even a rare error coin won’t fetch top dollar if it’s heavily damaged or worn. However, for genuine, significant errors, the rarity factor often outweighs minor condition issues, making them a fascinating area for collectors.
Spotting a genuine 1945 Australian penny is pretty straightforward once you know what to look for. Most of these coins were made in Perth, and you can usually tell by a little dot, or a period, right after the word ‘PENNY’ on the reverse side. It’s a small detail, but it’s a dead giveaway for a Perth mint coin.
Now, there’s a bit of a legend around a super-rare 1945 penny from the Melbourne Mint. These don’t have that dot after ‘PENNY’. Apparently, only four were ever made, and they were kept by the mint. So, if you find one without the dot, it’s a seriously big deal – like, potentially worth a fortune. But for most of us, the dot is what we’re looking for.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to check:
Be aware that while most 1945 pennies are from Perth and relatively common, the Melbourne Mint version is exceptionally rare. Always get any coin you suspect might be a rare variety authenticated by a professional.
If you’re looking at a coin that claims to be from the Melbourne Mint (no dot), it’s worth getting it checked out by a coin expert. They can confirm its authenticity and rarity. For the vast majority of 1945 pennies you’ll come across, though, the presence of that little dot is your key to identifying it as a standard issue from the Perth Mint.
So, you’ve got a 1945 Australian penny, and you’re wondering where to take it next, whether to sell it or maybe add to your collection. It’s not as straightforward as just popping down to the local shop, but there are definitely a few avenues you can explore.
For the most part, if you’ve got a standard 1945 penny, the kind minted in Perth with the dot after ‘PENNY’, you’re looking at a coin that’s quite common. These are the ones you’ll likely find at coin shows, online auction sites, or through specialist coin dealers. They’re great for filling a gap in a collection, and their value will mostly depend on the condition, as we’ve talked about.
Here’s a breakdown of where you might find or sell your 1945 penny:
Remember, the value of your 1945 penny can swing quite a bit. While most are common, the ultra-rare Melbourne Mint strikes are a different story altogether. Always do your homework on the specific variety you have before setting expectations.
If you’re looking to buy, the same places apply. You’ll find a range of conditions and prices, so it’s a good idea to have an idea of what you’re willing to spend and the grade you’re aiming for before you start looking.
Thinking about selling or buying a 1945 penny here in Australia? It’s a great question to ask! These old coins can be quite interesting. If you’re keen to find out more about where you can trade these special coins, or if you’re just curious about their value, we’ve got the info you need. Head over to our website for all the details on how to buy or sell your 1945 penny.
Most 1945 Australian pennies aren’t super valuable, usually fetching around $1 to $3 if they’ve been used a lot. If a coin is in really good shape, like it’s barely been touched, it can be worth much more, sometimes over $150.
The 1945 penny is famous because it marks the end of World War II. While most were made in Perth, a tiny number were made in Melbourne as special proof coins. These Melbourne ones are incredibly rare and worth a fortune!
Absolutely! A coin that looks brand new, with no scratches or wear, is worth way more than one that’s been jingling around in pockets for years. The better it looks, the higher the price.
That little ‘Y’ is a mint mark! It tells you the coin was made at the Perth Mint. If you find a 1945 penny without this dot, it might be from the Melbourne Mint, making it super rare.
The front (obverse) of the coin, showing King George VI, was designed by Thomas Humphrey Paget. The back (reverse), with the leaping kangaroo, was designed by George Kruger Grey. Their designs are key parts of the coin’s story.
Yes, sometimes coins have errors during minting, like a double strike or missing details. While the 1945 penny isn’t known for common errors, any unusual mistakes could make a coin much more valuable to collectors.
These pennies are made of bronze, which is a mix of copper and tin. They weigh about 9.45 grams and are 30.8 mm across. This standard composition is the same as British pennies of the time.
You can check out coin-collecting websites, books about Australian coins, or talk to a local coin dealer. They can help you figure out the exact value based on its condition and any special features it might have.
