2022 Australian Wedge-Tailed Eagle 10oz .9999 Silver Enhanced Reverse Proof High Relief Coin

Depicting master engraver John M. Mercanti’s seventh Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle design for The Perth Mint, this exceptionally detailed 10oz ‘enhanced reverse proof’ silver coin showcases an appreciably raised relief and a range of subtle finish variations.

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. Found throughout mainland Australia, Tasmania and southern Papua New Guinea, the bird has an impressive wingspan of up to 2.7 metres.

The Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle 2022 10oz Silver Enhanced Reverse Proof High Relief Coin is struck by The Perth Mint from 99.99% pure silver and issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965.

No more than 500 of these coins will be released worldwide.

DESIGN

Sculpted for The Perth Mint by the renowned US engraver, John M. Mercanti, the coin’s ultra high relief reverse portrays the head of a wedge-tailed eagle. Standing especially proud of the coin’s table, the artistry highlights the bird’s superbly effective eyes with bright finishes throughout the design enhanced with a range of subtle variations. As well as the inscription ‘AUSTRALIAN WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE’ and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ Mintmark, the reverse also includes the coin’s weight, fineness and its 2022 year-date.

The coin’s obverse depicts the Jody Clark effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the monetary denomination.

The coin’s high relief reverse and obverse are minted on concave surfaces to ensure the optimum flow of metal is achieved by the strike of the die. A variety of surface treatments have been applied to specific elements of the coin’s reverse design to create the impressive enhanced reverse proof finish. The coin’s obverse has been struck in The Perth Mint’s traditional high relief finish.

PRESENTATION

This coin is housed in a classic grey display case within a themed shipper and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

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.