Australian television began at 7pm on 16 September 1956, when Bruce Gyngell looked into a camera and said good evening and welcome to television. The timing was no accident. The Melbourne Olympics were weeks away, and the country wanted to watch.

The early years were black and white, with families gathered around heavy sets for newsreels, variety hours and children's programs. Colour arrived in 1975 and changed everything, sport and drama especially. Countdown, Neighbours, Play School and Four Corners followed, shows that shaped what the country talked about. Satellite and regional broadcasting carried it to communities that had been out of reach.

Seventy years on, this coloured silver proof marks the anniversary.

The 2026 50c First Television Broadcast 70th Anniversary Coloured Silver Proof Coin is available in Australia from Direct Coins - leading authorised distributor for the Royal Australian Mint since 2012.