Mother of pearl is a hard, smooth, shining iridescent substance that forms the inner layer of the shells of certain molluscs, such as the oyster and abalone. It displays a mix of colours, ranging from deep cobalt blue and peacock green, to hues of purple, cream and pink. Also known as nacre, it is highly sought after as decorative pieces and used in the manufacture of jewellery, buttons, cutlery, guns, inlays in furniture, and musical instruments.

Proof Quality 99.9% Pure Silver

The coin is struck from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality.

Authentic Australian White Mother of Pearl Shell

The reverse of the coin features a sculpted representation of an Australian white mother of pearl shell with a polished fragment of mother-of-pearl centrepiece, against a rippled pattern representing the ocean floor.  The inscription AUSTRALIAN WHITE MOTHER OF PEARL SHELL and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark also appear in the design.

Australian Legal Tender

The coin is issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, and features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the monetary denomination, the coin’s weight and fineness, and the 2015 year-date.

Limited Mintage

No more than 3,000 of the 2015 Australian White Mother of Pearl Shell 1oz Silver Coin will be released by The Perth Mint.

Presentation Packaging and Numbered Certificate

The coin is presented in a classic Perth Mint display case and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.