The Australian one kilo gold piece (abbreviated as 1 kg and designated with Au for "gold") is a bullion coin format. Uniquely, in Australia there are two mints authorised to strike legal tender: the Royal Australian Mint (which also makes the country's circulating coinage) and the Perth Mint which only makes collector and bullion coins, as well as other bullion products.
Both mints endeavour to create coins with attractive designs, and to introduce new designs and themes often, in order to raise the numismatic value of the coins over the value of previous metal used.
This coin is part of the Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle range by the Perth Mint. The 2024 edition celebrates the tenth anniversary of the series, and is the ninth design by John M. Mercanti.
The mint says about the coin: Launched in 2014, the Wedge-tailed Eagle series portrays images of Australia’s largest bird of prey by leading US coin engraver John M. Mercanti. With its distinctive wedge-shaped tail, the huge raptor is an icon of our sun-drenched skies. An impressive wingspan of up to 2.5 metres allows it to fly tirelessly for many hours at altitudes of up to 2,000 metres.
The coin showcases Australia’s largest bird of prey in ultra high relief, offering tangible depth and an exquisite level of detail that brings the eagle to life as it gracefully soars high above the Australian terrain. |