The provided search result context is insufficient for a comprehensive answer, as it primarily consists of website navigation elements rather than specific details about Australian silver coinage. Based on numismatic and historical knowledge, an analysis of Australian silver coins can be divided into two distinct periods: pre-decimal and decimal currency.
Prior to the introduction of decimal currency in 1966, Australian coinage contained silver in several denominations. From 1910 until 1945, the threepence, sixpence, shilling, and florin were minted from 92.5% silver, which is known as sterling silver. The Australian crown, minted only in 1937 and 1938, also consisted of sterling silver. Following World War II, from 1946 to 1964, the silver content of these same denominations was reduced to 50% due to economic factors.
With the changeover to decimal currency in 1966, silver was almost entirely removed from general circulation coinage. There was one notable exception: the round 50 cent coin issued in 1966. This coin was composed of 80% silver. However, as the intrinsic value of its silver content soon exceeded its face value, it was minted for only one year and subsequently withdrawn from circulation. All Australian circulating coins produced since that time are made from base metal alloys, such as cupro-nickel and aluminum bronze.
Today, Australia, primarily through the Perth Mint and the Royal Australian Mint, is a prolific producer of modern silver bullion and numismatic coins intended for investors and collectors. These coins are legal tender but are not intended for general circulation. Prominent examples include the Australian Silver Kookaburra series, the Australian Silver Kangaroo, the Australian Silver Koala, and various series based on the lunar calendar. These modern issues are typically struck from very high purity silver, often .999 or .9999 fine.
