The Australian ten ounces gold piece (abbreviated as 10 oz 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.
The Jewelled Phoenix 2018 10oz Gold Proof Coin by the Perth Mint is the first issue in a series of jewelled collector coins dedicated to Chinese culture and features a phoenix - a symbol of high virtue and grace.
The Mint says about the coin: "A truly exquisite collectable, The Jewelled Phoenix is a spectacularly handcrafted fusion of rare treasures from two Australian icons - The Perth Mint and Argyle Pink Diamonds. With meticulous attention to detail, two of nature’s most desired treasures have been transformed into a masterful work of art eloquently celebrating the mystical Chinese phoenix.
The ethereal creature, rich in ancient symbolism, has been fashioned from rose gold and elegantly handset with 89 beyond rare Argyle pink diamonds which have been especially selected for their colour intensity.
Only eight of these coveted collectables will ever be released worldwide." The number 8 symbolises good fortune in Chinese culture. |