To believe that such an unrivalled rarity survived is almost beyond imagination.   Perhaps it may even be the long-lost 1930 Australian Penny's reverse die?   Ultimately, the actual first in numismatics isn't the first strike of a circulation example or even a presentation specimen — it is the original...

A Resolution and Adventure medal c. 1772, dating back to Cook’s Second Voyage, has just been discovered in Wellington. Such examples were given and traded amongst local Māori communities and are considered a Taonga (cultural treasure) of New Zealand. With only around a dozen examples found buried in New Zealand...

Western Roman Empire. Julius Nepos. 474-475 AD. Obverse: D N IVL NEPOS P F AVG. Helmeted, pearl-diademed and cuirassed bust facing three-quarters right, holding spear and shield; the shield decorated with a horseman trampling a fallen foe. Reverse: VICTORIA AVGGG. Victory standing left, holding a long jewelled cross; in left...