2018 Australian $1 - Australias Convict Era - Rascals and Ratbags - "C"

2018 $1 AlBr 'C' Counterstamp Australias Convict Era - Rascals and Ratbags

In 2018 we mark the 230th anniversary of the First Fleet’s arrival and the 150th anniversary of the voyage of the Hougoumont, which bore the last of the convicts transported to Australia. Between 1788 and 1868, 162 000 convicts arrived in Australia.
Some were hardened criminals, whilst others were victims of poverty and desperation, or political rebels.

This single coin was minted at the press in the Royal Australian Mint shop.

Coin’s reverse features a stylistic illustration of Australia in the shape of a tree, with the chain and Broad Arrow at the roots

Presended on a card depicting an illustration and story of convict Esther Abrahams Johnston who became a New South Wales ‘First Lady’

HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE

In the past Australians were reluctant to acknowledge their convict ancestors, but nowadays to be descended from a convict is considered a badge of honour. Almost 20 per cent of Australians are currently descended from the convicts who were transported to Australia in the 80 year period between 1788 and 1868.
The convicts were a mixed bunch. Some were hardened criminals and scoundrels, some were political prisoners, and some were simply victims of desperate poverty. Many remained in Australia after gaining their freedom, to build new lives. This significant period of migration changed the face of Australia forever and helped create a nation of mixed heritage.
Some convicts achieved remarkable fame and fortune, such as Esther Abrahams Johnston. Their stories have entered Australia’s folklore and led to the creation of books, films and artworks that have influenced our understanding of this challenging period of history.

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