The most unique project in my time as a painter has been recreating the 1808 Ferdinand VII Holey Dollar on canvas. Commissioned by Coinworks director Belinda Downie in 2016, this endeavor presented a beautiful challenge to portray the historical significance of Australia’s first coin respectfully and accurately.
With a background in numismatics, I brought years of experience to this task, knowing precisely which details to highlight on the coin. Drawing from my art school experience painting Vermeer’s ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring,’ I approached this project with a blend of skill and reverence for history.
This oil painting project required careful consideration of the craftsmanship of the original Ferdinand VII Spanish Silver Dollar, which served as the blank for the Holey Dollar, and the additions made by Australia’s first mint master, liberated convict William Henshall.
Governor Lachlan Macquarie's order of 40,000 Spanish Silver Dollars in 1813 marked the collision of two worlds, resulting in Australia's first coinage. Only 39,910 Holey Dollars were circulated in NSW due to spoilage and mishaps during minting, with the remaining specimens sent to Great Britain. Demonetized in 1829, the Holey Dollars were eventually melted down for £5044, but approximately 300 examples remain today, including just 13 depicting Ferdinand VII.
Displayed alongside the original coin at the ANDA Perth Coin Expo, this painting holds a distinctive place in both art and numismatics. Valued at $450,000 in 2016, the original Holey Dollar depicted in the painting adds historical depth to the artwork.
Available as a Limited Edition Giclee Print, this painting offers collectors and historians a chance to own a piece of art that beautifully showcases the intersection of fine art and Australian numismatic history.
- The '1808 Ferdinand VII Holey Dollar', are limited edition prints of an original painting.
- The original painting was created using Langridge Oil Paints on canvas.
- These Giclee prints, feature archival quality pigment inks on 310gsm Smooth Cotton Rag paper by Ilford.
- This 100% cotton rag paper offers a smooth matt surface, perfect for capturing the detail of this work.
- Each print is individually numbered and signed by Sarah.
- A confidential register is kept safely with your contact details and edition number of the purchased artwork.
- This work will be sent using Australia Post and includes tracking. Please note with the current climate, delivery times can vary, and your patience is greatly appreciated.
- Free shipping Australia wide.
- International shipping is available.
- This item is printed to order. For time sensitive orders, please contact me directly at hello@sarahbraybrook.com