Australia’s rich soil has revealed some of the most significant and iconic gold nuggets ever discovered. From the massive "Welcome Stranger" to Queensland’s largest, the "Curtis Nugget," these treasures have become legendary symbols of fortune and adventure. At Queensland Mint, we celebrate this legacy, helping today’s prospectors continue the search for their own golden treasures with cutting-edge tools and expertise. Here, we take you on a journey through the history of Australia’s most famous gold nuggets. 

1. Welcome Stranger Nugget 

Discovery: 1869 by John Deason and Richard Oates in Moliagul, Victoria. 
Weight: Gross weight of 2,520 troy ounces (78 kg; 173 lb), refined to 2,284 troy ounces (71.0 kg; 156.6 lb). 
Value Today: Estimated at AU$4 million. 
Significance: The "Welcome Stranger" remains the largest alluvial gold nugget ever found. Although it was melted down, its legacy lives on through replicas displayed in the Melbourne City Museum and with the discoverers’ descendants. 

 
Replica of the Welcome Stranger Nugget 

2. Welcome Nugget 

Discovery: 1858 by the Red Hill Mining Company at Bakery Hill, Ballarat, Victoria. 
Weight: 2,218 troy ounces (69.0 kg; 152.1 lb). 
Note: The "Welcome Nugget" was another major discovery during the height of Australia’s gold rush. Despite being melted down in London in 1859, its importance in Australian history remains undiminished. 

3. The Golden Eagle Nugget 

Discovery: 1931 by 17-year-old Jim Larcombe in Western Australia’s Goldfields-Esperance region. 
Weight: 1,135 troy ounces (35.3 kg; 77.8 lb). 
Note: Named for its striking resemblance to an eagle, this remarkable nugget captivated the imaginations of gold hunters. Though it was melted down, the story of the "Golden Eagle Nugget" continues to inspire prospectors. 

4. Lady Hotham Nugget 

Discovery: 1854 in Ballarat, Victoria. 
Weight: 1,170 troy ounces (36 kg; 80 lb). 
Note: This impressive nugget was named after Lady Hotham, the wife of Victoria’s then-Governor Charles Hotham, and contributed to Ballarat’s reputation as a gold-rich town during the rush era. 

5. Curtis Nugget 

Discovery: 1868 by Curtis and Brigg in Gympie, Queensland. 
Weight: 975 troy ounces (approximately 27.6 kg). 
Significance: The "Curtis Nugget" holds the title of Queensland’s largest gold discovery. Found near Gympie’s goldfields, it further cemented the town’s place in Queensland’s rich gold history, following James Nash’s earlier discoveries that sparked the gold rush. 

 
The Curtis Nugget, Queensland’s largest gold find 

6. Hand of Faith 

Discovery: 26 September 1980 by Kevin Hillier using a metal detector in Kingower, Victoria. 
Weight: 27.2 kg. 
Note: The "Hand of Faith" remains the largest gold nugget ever found with a metal detector. Now housed in a Las Vegas casino, it continues to symbolize the power of modern technology in gold prospecting. 

7. Lady Loch Nugget 

Discovery: Not specified. 
Note: The "Lady Loch Nugget" is another impressive testament to Australia’s golden history, representing the untold treasures that remain hidden beneath the soil. 

8. Blanche Barkly Nugget 

Discovery: Not specified. 
Note: The "Blanche Barkly Nugget" joins the list of remarkable finds that have shaped Australia’s gold rush narrative, adding to the country’s golden folklore. 

9. Little Hero Nugget 

Discovery: Not specified. 
Note: Though smaller than others on this list, the "Little Hero Nugget" exemplifies the ongoing quest for gold in Australia. Its discovery reminds us that fortune can still be found by those willing to seek it. 

Begin Your Own Gold Prospecting Adventure 

Australia’s golden history is far from over. With modern advancements in metal detecting technology, today’s prospectors have a greater chance of finding gold than ever before. At Queensland Mint, we offer the latest in metal detectors and prospecting equipment to help you embark on your own journey into Australia’s gold-rich terrains. 

Whether you’re searching in Victoria’s historic fields or exploring Queensland’s gold-laden soils, the tools for success are at your fingertips. Our expert team at Queensland Mint is here to guide you, offering valuable advice and top-of-the-line equipment to ensure you’re fully prepared for your next adventure. 

Visit Queensland Mint today to explore our range of metal detecting gear and take the first step toward your own golden discovery. Contact us on 07 3184 8300 or visit our website to get started. Your place in Australia’s golden history awaits! 

Key Learnings 

Australia’s Rich Gold Legacy: The country has produced some of the world’s most significant gold nuggets, each with a unique story and lasting impact. 

Technology and Prospecting Success: Today’s metal detecting tools offer a greater chance of striking gold in Australia’s mineral-rich lands. 

Queensland Mint’s Expertise: We provide cutting-edge equipment and expert guidance to help modern prospectors continue Australia’s golden tradition. 

Who Will Benefit from This Story? 

Prospectors: Whether new or experienced, this article is ideal for anyone eager to explore Australia’s goldfields and uncover hidden treasures. 

History Enthusiasts: Readers interested in Australia’s gold rush and its legendary discoveries will appreciate the rich narratives of these famous nuggets. 

Gold Investors and Collectors: Those looking to learn more about gold’s history and how they can join the adventure will find inspiration in these golden stories. 

Financial Advice Disclaimer 

The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes and should not be considered financial advice. While Queensland Mint provides expert guidance on precious metals and general insights into gold investment and collection, we do not offer personalized financial advice. For tailored investment decisions or financial planning, we recommend consulting with a certified financial advisor who can assess your individual needs and circumstances.