Palau – 2013 – 1 Dollar – Ludwig Leichhardt (PROOF)

Description

Metal: Gold .9999
Weight: 0.5 g
Diameter: 11 mm
Quality: Proof
Mintage: 15’000 pcs

The German Friedrich Wilhelm Ludwig Leichhardt, who is hardly known in his own country, is venerated in Australia to this day due to his expeditions. The small gold coin commemorates this great Australian explorers 200th birthday.

Ludwig Leichhardt was born on October 23rd, 1813 in Brandenburg. As his father was a peat inspector the large family were able to live a moderately comfortable life and Ludwig enjoyed troublefree childhood. Already in his young years he had the opportunity to study in different countries.

In the mid 40s in the 19th century he undertook his first expedition through Australia and developed the east-north-route. His next goal was to cross the continent from East to West. This attempt failed in 1846 after only a few months. However, Leichhardt did not give up and started another attempt in 1848.

From this expedition he was not destined to return. Several search parties did not lead to a clarification of Ludwig Leichhardt’s disappearance. What exactly happened to the Australian explorer and his team will probably remain a mystery forever.