Silver Two Ounces 2018 Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle, Coin from Australia - detailed information

The Australian two ounces silver piece (abbreviated as 2 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.

This coin is part of the Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle series by the Perth Mint, and the third design by John M. Mercanti (the series features a new design every year).

The Mint says about it:
"Renowned coin sculptor and engraver John M. Mercanti’s brilliant third Wedge-tailed Eagle design adorns our first ever proof quality piedfort. Meaning ‘heavy weight’, piedforts were originally struck in France during the 12th century for presentation purposes. At twice the weight and thickness of other coins of the same diameter, the historic piedfort is a fittingly impressive canvas for John’s outstanding artistry.

The 40.6 mm coin is struck from 2oz of 99.99% pure silver to our renowned proof standard combining a mirror-like polished background with delicately frosted relief.

The coin’s reverse features an intimate look at the life-cycle of Australia’s largest bird of prey with a touching family scene comprising a mother and father tending and protecting their new hatchling."