The Perth Mint has sold its unique $1.8 million Australian Trilogy coin collection to an anonymous Asian collector via the Singapore-based Glajz-THG Pte Ltd.
Described as “the pinnacle” of the mint’s long-term association with Rio Tinto and Argyle Pink Diamonds, the three-coin Australian Trilogy combines pure precious metals with “exceptionally rare” pink diamonds from the east Kimberley region of Western Australia.
“This coveted collection of diamond studded gold and platinum coins has raised the bar on the concept of ‘unique collectable,’ exemplifying the quality craftsmanship for which The Perth Mint and Argyle Pink Diamonds are renowned,” said Perth Mint Chief Executive Officer Richard Hayes.
CONVERGENCE OF COLOUR & LIGHT
The first coin is crafted from 99.99 per cent gold and depicts two kookaburras on a wooden fence. The coin also includes a 0.47-carat round brilliant-cut fancy deep purple-pink diamond. The second coin, this featuring a kangaroo, is struck from 99.95 per cent pure platinum and depicts the iconic Australian marsupial alongside an outback plain. This coin includes a 0.46-carat emerald-cut fancy dark grey-violet diamond. Lastly, the third coin contains 91.67 per cent rose gold and depicts a koala beneath a eucalyptus tree. This coin contains a 0.58-carat emerald-cut fancy intense pink diamond.
“In the pursuit of perfection, up to 30 examples of each coin were struck before a process of scrupulous inspection and rejection resulted in three supreme choices (and the melting pot for those discarded),” explains the mint.
Since the collection was unveiled last month by Mark McGowan, premier of Western Australia, it has commanded the attention of diamond connoisseurs, investors and collectors around the world.
GLAJZ-THG
Glajz-THG Pte Ltd. is a joint venture between John Glajz and the public listed company The Hour Glass Ltd., specializing in the global distribution and marketing of rare gemstones and luxury fine jewellery.
“The prompt sale of The Australian Trilogy again highlights the premium collectors place on exclusive items, which is what we also found with the sale of the Kimberley Treasure $1 million coin in 2016,” said Hayes.
According to The Perth Mint, the Australian Trilogy follows other recent numismatic success stories: “An essential aim for any proud organization is to test its skills with the aim of surpassing all previous efforts. The Perth Mint has continuously challenged itself in order to extend its capabilities beyond the conventional. From a pioneering role in ‘colourization’ and ‘gilding’ techniques, to casting our world record breaking One Tonne Gold Coin, we’ve never shied away from pushing the boundaries.”
With the permission of its new owner, the Australian Trilogy coin collection will remain on display in The Perth Mint Shop at 310 Hay Street in East Perth until the end of this month.