Countdown coin marks 50th anniversary

Be quick if you are a diehard Countdown fan.

The Australian Mint is releasing a 50c Coloured Uncirculated Coin to mark 50 years of Countdown.

Countdown turns 50 next month, screening from 8 November 1974 – 19 July 1987.

Fittingly, the coin also has King Charles on the reverse, a coincidence given his famed appearance on the ABC show.

A ballot to purchase the coin closes at 8:30am today Thursday October 3rd.

Royal Australian Mint CEO Leigh Gordon said, “The influence Countdown had on the Australian music industry at the time was significant.

“On Sunday evenings, loyal viewers tuned in to what became the most popular music program in Australian TV history. For thirteen years, the program held sway over what became a hit.

“One appearance could create overnight rock gods and pop divas, in effect generating the biggest break an Australian music act could hope for.

“It would be remiss of the Mint not to celebrate this iconic Australian program with a coin as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.”

“I am left with such fond memories of those days and a show that will never be forgotten,” Molly Meldrum said.

“We made a difference to the music industry in Australia and so I am thrilled to see commemorative coin being made. Do yourself a favour and get one. Iconic Countdown lives on.”

Gavin Wood, the Voice of Countdown, said “There is no doubt, Countdown was the most important show in Australian music history. Three million people weekly can’t be wrong.

“It was an amazing experience to be a part of such an iconic show.”

The coin is also available via:

The Royal Australian Mint Coin Shop, Denison Street, Deakin from 8.30am Thursday 3 October 2024
Mint Contact Centre on 1300 652 020 from 8.30am Thursday 3 October 2024
From participating authorised distributors