A new Australian three-ounce silver proof gilt coin showcases one of the country’s best-known native marsupials, the koala.
Often perceived as a cuddly animal and generally sleepy during the daytime, the koala has an appealing bear-like face and thick grey fur. Spending much of its life in gum trees, where it consumes large quantities of leaves, the koala can nevertheless be experienced close-up at sanctuaries and zoos throughout Australia. The animal graces the new proof coin struck by the Perth Mint in 99.99 per cent silver and issued as legal tender under the 1965 Australian Currency Act.
Celebrating the “Koala” bullion coin’s 15th anniversary in silver, the coin features a 24-karat gilded portrayal of the sleepy creature lying on the bough of a gum tree. The reverse also includes the inscription “KOALA 15TH ANNIVERSARY,” the mint’s “P” mintmark plus the coin’s weight, purity and year-date. The obverse bears the Jody Clark effigy of Queen Elizabeth II and the denomination.
Designed by Ing Ing Jong, an illustrator and graphic designer based in Perth, Australia, the coin is housed in a classic display case with a clear lid. An illustrated card and a numbered certificate of authenticity accompany each coin. It has a weight of 93.32 grams, a diameter of 50 millimetres, a thickness of six millimetres and a mintage of 2,000.