Australia is one of the large issuers of bullion coins. Uniquely, there are two independent mints in the country 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. Their issues are normally in standard sizes (mostly based on the troy ounce), but sometimes they also issue coins in non-standard formats, such as this one
The 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: Named for its long, distinctively shaped tail, the wedge-tailed eagle is Australia’s largest bird of prey and one of the biggest eagles in the world. With an expansive wingspan of up to 2.5 metres, it has the ability to fly tirelessly for many hours and frequently reaches altitudes of 2,000 metres and beyond on thermal air currents rising from Australia’s sun-baked terrain.
The coin portrays the magnificent raptor soaring high in the sky against a geometric pattern suggesting a sunburst. |