2026 50c Wave Hill Walk Off 60th & Aboriginal Land Rights 50th Silver Proof Coin
2026 50c Wave Hill Walk Off 60th & Aboriginal Land Rights 50th Silver Proof Coin 2026 marks two major anniversaries for Indigenous Australia with 60 years since the Wave Hill Walk-Off and 50 years since the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976. The Royal Australian Mint Commemorates these iconic milestones with this 2026 50c Uncirculated Coin. The Wave Hill Walk-Off began in 1966 when the Gurindji people, led by Vincent Lingiari, left the Wave Hill cattle station in the Northern Territory to protest poor wages and conditions. What started as a labour dispute soon grew into a powerful call for land rights, as the Gurindji asserted their enduring connection to Country. Their determination captured national attention and reshaped Australia's understanding of justice and equality. In 1975, Prime Minister Gough Whitlam symbolically returned Gurindji land at Wattie Creek, pouring soil into Lingiari's hand in a moment that became an enduring image of reconciliation. This historic "hand back" helped pave the way for the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1976 - the first legislation to recognise Aboriginal land ownership. Together, these milestones reflect the courage, unity and leadership of the Gurindji people, whose legacy continues to inspire Australia's journey towards respect and reconciliation. The coin's revers features a design created u collaboration with the Gurindji people showing a stylised representation of the Wave Hill Walk-Off, an artistic representation of the iconic 'hand over' between Gough Whitlam and Vincent Lingiari, and micro text of Lingiari quotes. The coin's obvers features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III sculpted by Daniel Thorne. Encapsulated coin presented in a presentation case with certificate of authenticity and outer carton. Struck to the Mint's proof finish. Each coin is issued as Australian Legal Tender. Limited Mintage of just 6,500 Denomination : 50c Finish : Proof Weight : 18.24 gms Diameter : 31.51 mm Mintage : 6,500 Authenticity : The Royal Australian Mint packaging