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 fourth design by John M. Mercanti (the series features a new design every year).
The Mint says about it: "Certain to appeal to collectors of the highly sought after Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle coin series, this extra-thick silver coin continues ancient minting traditions. Twice the weight and thickness of other coins of the same diameter, the piedfort originated in France during the 12th century. Revived by The Perth Mint in proof quality in 2018, the extra-thick coin is a fitting canvas for John M. Mercanti’s outstanding Wedge-tailed Eagle designs.
Struck from 2oz of pure silver, this coin is a unique addition to a beloved Australian series characterised by meticulous craftsmanship and exceptional quality. The coin’s reverse depicts a magnificent wedge-tailed eagle in flight with wings fully extended and stylised rays of sunlight in the background." |