2024 Fifty Cent Countdown 50th Anniversary (50c) Uncirculated Australian Decimal Coin

Fifty years ago, the first episode of Countdown went to air, introducing Australians to a generation of emerging local and international performers and to the show's host Ian "Molly" Meldrum.

Countdown and its exposure of emerging local talent was central to the rise of Australian performers such as Kylie Minogue, John Paul Young, Skyhooks, Marcia Hines and Men at Work.

With a Brief to promote Australian Music, Countdown oversaw the rise of a succession of talented Aussie bands and performers, such as AC/DC, Kylie Minogue, John Farnham and Olivia Newton-John.

Countdown also promoted the emerging music videos medium in its regular programming, contributing to the rise of international performers such as Madonna, ABBA and Cybdi Lauper.

After 563 episodes, Countdown ceased on the 19th July 1987. 

The Royal Australian Mint has released this stunning coloured 50c uncirculated coin as a fitting tribute to Countdown and its loyal viewers.

• The coin features the iconic Countdown Logo on a retro television set, with stars and music notes, surrounded by a tunnel of multicoloured shapes
• Limited mintage of 50,000 coins
• Features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III