Australian Silver Kookaburras

General Coin Information

Minted by the Australian Perth Mint, the Kookaburra is the only major silver bullion coin to change its design yearly.  The altering of its form and pattern every year is intended to help compete with other mints worldwide by attracting collectors as well as investors. These coins have a superior quality finish which incorporates delicate, proof-like frosting within the central design. Kookaburra silver coins are legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965.

Kookaburras are a bird known to many, not by its appearance, but by its call. Native to Australia, the Kookaburra’s call has been used many times in the movies and televisions. It sounds extremely similar to loud human laughter and is used mainly to greet its mate after being apart for any reason. It is the world’s largest Kingfisher, with a body length of up to ½ meter. They are also known as “laughing jackasses” due to their chattering calls. They form community groups within Eastern and Southern Australia, marking and defending their territory both with their calls and with force, if necessary. 

The Kookaburra is carnivorous and survives on a diet of mostly small mice. However, it is also known to eat other small creatures like snakes, lizards and sometimes other small birds.

First introduced in 1990 by the Perth Mint, the Kookaburra silver coin has proved successful for two decades, its purity and weight are guaranteed.

It is issued in four popular sizes, 1oz., 2oz., 10oz. and kilo (32.15 troy oz. – the worlds largest silver bullion coin) through the Perth Mint. Many variations exist with extra stamps or seals issued for special occasions & coin shows.

Obverse Design

The obverse contains an image of Queen Elizabeth II along with the inscriptions “Queen Elizabeth II”, “Australia”, “year minted” and “1 Dollar” ( “1″ changes based on the size.)

Reverse Design

The reverse design incorporates an image of the Kookaburra. Encircling the bird around the top of the coin is the inscription “”The Australian Kookaburra.” Underneath the Kookaburra are “1 oz” ( “1 oz” changes based on the size), “999 Silver” and “year minted”.

Australian Kookaburra Silver Coin Specifications

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References:

• worldmintcoins.com
• apmex.com