The Australian five ounces silver piece (abbreviated as 5 oz and designated with Ag for "silver") is a bullion and commemorative 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 mint says about this coin: Struck from 5oz of pure silver, this notable release features an incused representation of a kookaburra, meaning the impression of the bird is pressed deep into the surface of the coin, in contrast to the more traditional raised relief.
Famed for its raucous laughing call, the kookaburra is heard across Australia - from the outback to the back yard. And while it may be adept at snatching food from your barbecue or picnic table, the kookaburra enjoys a varied menu in the wild - insects, earthworms, frogs, fish, mice, and even snakes. |