This coin pays tribute to Saint Mary MacKillop who was named Australia's first saint at a canonisation ceremony performed by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI in Rome on 17 October 2010. Mary MacKillop inspired those around her during her life and her legacy has made a great impact on Australian society. Her elevation to sainthood in 2010 is just recognition of a life spent in pursuit of justice health and equality for all Australians.

The mintage limit of 7 500 proof coins was fully subscribed. Each coin is housed encapsulated in a black hinged-lid presentation case protected by a colourful cardboard shipper and accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity. Second quality