The 1916-M Sixpence was the first of its series to be produced at the Melbourne Mint in Australia. The total mintage for the year was 1,769,000 which was quite typical for the series. The type is quite scarce in most grades and acquiring an example in mint-state would require a substantial commitment. Collectors seeking a mint-state example from early in the George V Sixpence series will always face high prices but may find the 1921 or 1926 a more affordable choice.
In late 1915 it was decided the the production of Australia's coinage would be shifted from Britain to Australia. New dies from the Australian Shilling, Florin, Sixpence, and Threepence were produced in London for use at the Melbourne Mint with a small 'M' mint-mark. Arrangements were also made for Australia's bronze coinage to be struck at the Royal Mint in Calcutta. The production of Silver Coinage at the Melbourne branch of the Royal Mint began on the 12th of January 1916. (The North Western Advocate and the Emu Bay Times, 1916)
