Sporting retailer Rebel has joined forces with Rugby Australia and the Royal Australia to commemorate the country’s national rugby union teams, the Wallabies and the Wallaroos.
During a special announcement this week ahead of Saturday’s first Wallabies test against the British and Irish Lions, the Mint unveiled the artwork of its new coins at Rebel’s Lions Tour pop-up store in Brisbane.
Customers who pay by cash at participating Rebel stores can receive one of two specially minted $2 coins in their change from today. A two-coin collector set is also available for purchase.
The coin release marks the 10th tour of the British and Irish Lions to Australia, continuing a rivalry that began with the Wallabies’ first international match in 1899 in Australia.
The coins also honour the Wallaroos, Australia’s women’s rugby union team, which is preparing to compete in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.
“We know the level of excitement that the British and Irish Lions Tour creates for rugby union fans across the country,” Rebel’s general manager of retail Meg Zelewski said.
“While we have a broad range of supporter gear stocked on our shop floors for all of the participating teams, this is a chance for fans to get their hands on a very unique piece of memorabilia for both our Wallabies and Wallaroos.”
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said the Lions only visit Australia every 12 years, and the Women’s Rugby World Cup is held every four years.
“The coins are a fantastic symbolisation of two key events for both the Wallabies and Wallaroos in 2025 and the designs are a true collector’s item,” Waugh said. “It’s a significant year for Rugby in Australia and these coins honour each team as they compete in pinnacle events at the highest level on the global stage.”
Designed by the Mint’s Adam Ball, these coins feature the team’s official logo and colours, with a stadium beneath and two athletes captured mid-play above. The obverse features the effigy of King Charles III, designed by Daniel Thorne.
Royal Australian Mint acting CEO Emily Martin said this coin release is a nod to 150 years of Rugby Union history with the Wallabies test series against the British and Irish Lions, and an exciting lead-up to the 2025 Women’s rugby world cup.
“Whether you’re a die-hard rugby supporter or a collector, this is your chance to own a piece of sporting history,” Martin said.
The coins can also be bought from Rebel's online store, at the Mint shop in Canberra, or via the Mint's online store.