2018 Birds of Paradise 1oz Gold Coin

The bird of paradise is famously associated with the island of New Guinea, where its beautiful plumes are used as currency by local tribes and worn as adornments during cultural ceremonies.

A remarkable example is Victoria’s riflebird. Known as the ‘duwuduwu’ to the indigenous Yidinji people, it was recorded by Scottish naturalist John Macgillivray in 1848 and subsequently named after the reigning UK monarch, Queen Victoria.

In colour, the male bird’s similarity to the uniforms of contemporary British riflemen is the purported reason for its common title. Predominantly velvety black, the plumage includes areas of iridescent greenish blue, purple and bronze which are used to showy effect during its theatrical courtship dance. This flamboyant display involves a series of initial nodding, weaving and flapping movements. As a dramatic finale, the bird holds its head high while arching its wings skyward in a dramatic appeal for a mate.

Each coin is struck by The Perth Mint from 1oz of 99.99% pure gold, and issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965.

The Perth Mint will release no more than 5,000 of the Bird of Paradise 2018 1oz Gold Bullion Coin.

DESIGN

The coin’s reverse depicts a representation of a Victoria’s Riflebird perched on a branch with its wings outstretched and its mouth wide open. The design includes the inscription AUSTRALIAN BIRD OF PARADISE and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

The Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the monetary denomination and the 2018 year-date are depicted on the coin’s obverse.

PRESENTATON

Each bullion coin is presented in a protective acrylic capsule.

Technical Specifications

ABOUT THE PERTH MINT

The Perth Mint, located in Perth, Western Australia, is one of the oldest and most prestigious mints in the world, with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. It was established in 1899 as a branch of Britain's Royal Mint in response to the discovery of rich gold deposits in Western Australia. Its primary purpose was to refine gold mined in the region and to mint gold sovereigns and half sovereigns for use throughout the British Empire.

The Perth Mint played a crucial role in the development of Western Australia's gold industry, providing a local facility for gold refining and coin production that significantly contributed to the economic growth of the region. Over the years, it has evolved to become a leader in the precious metals industry, offering a wide range of services including gold and silver bullion bars and coins, precious metal refining, and jewellry.

After Australia gained independence, the Perth Mint continued its operations and, in 1970, it became wholly owned by the Government of Western Australia. Since then, it has expanded its offerings to include commemorative coins, investment products, and a wealth of services for precious metals storage, management, and distribution.

Notably, The Perth Mint has set several world records, including producing the world's largest gold coin in 2011, weighing one tonne and featuring a kangaroo design. It also operates one of the largest LBMA (London Bullion Market Association) accredited gold refineries in the world.

The mint is also a significant tourist attraction, offering visitors insights into Australia's gold mining history, the chance to view Australia’s largest collection of natural gold nuggets, and live demonstrations of traditional gold pouring.

Swan Bullion Company is proud to be an authorised distributor for both The Perth Mint bullion and numismatic products.