SLIM Dusty’s birthday is today and the Royal Australian Mint is marking it by officially launching  a coin recognising the late music legend’s contribution to Australian society at the “Slim Dusty Birthday Bash” in Sydney tonight.

This coin is the latest release in the Mint’s “Inspirational Australian” series which recognises and celebrates individual achievements and commemorates unique Australians who have made an extraordinary contribution to our society.

“The name Slim Dusty has been synonymous with Australian country music for nearly seventy years,” said Mint CEO, Ross MacDiarmid.

“Slim inspired many with not only his songs about real Australians but also his passion for life and it’s fitting that he be included in this honoured series and that we officially launch it tonight amongst some of his biggest fans,” he added.

Slim pioneered the bush ballad in Australian country music which brought happiness and joy to many around the country. His incredible career includes over 100 albums, song writing and recording awards, as well as becoming the first artist to have their music broadcast from space on the 1981 Space Shuttle Columbia mission. 2013 also marks ten years since Slim’s passing.

The uncirculated coin design was developed in collaboration with the Slim Dusty Foundation and depicts Slim Dusty, with his famous acoustic guitar in the background, the accessory he never went without.

The collectible coin retails for $13.50 with a percentage of the proceedings going to the Slim Dusty Foundation and can be bought by visiting the Royal Australian Mint’s online store https://eshop.ramint.gov.au or phoning the Call Centre on 1300 652 020.