2021 $1 Australian Dolphin Series – Fraser’s Dolphin 1oz .999 Silver Bullion Coin
These coins are the third instalment in the Royal Australian Mint’s ‘Australian Dolphin Series’ and features the Fraser’s Dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei), discovered by Francis Fraser in 1956.
The Fraser’s Dolphin was only officially discovered in 1956 after Francis Fraser identified the species from a mislabelled skeleton in the British Museum. Distinguishable by its cream and black flank stripes, the Fraser’s Dolphin is stocky in shape with a short beak and small dorsal fins, flippers and flukes (tail). Males can reach up to 2.7 metres long and weigh more than 200 kilograms.
Social in nature, Fraser’s Dolphins have been known to travel in pods of up to 1,000 and swim in a high-spirited fashion, creating lots of surface splashes. These dolphins also mix with other species of dolphins and even whales. Found in tropical regions of the Indian and Pacific oceans, the Fraser’s Dolphin dives deep for its food, reaching depths of up to 500 metres. With a diet of mostly fish, this dolphin also fuels itself with squid and crustaceans. While the Fraser Dolphin is still hunted by some countries, the International Union for Conservation of Nature lists its conservation status as ‘least concern’.
Struck by Royal Australian Mint from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver, the coin is issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965 and has a mintage of 25,000.
DESIGN
The reverse features depicts two Fraser Dolphins designed by Aleksandra Stokic. The reverse also features the inscriptions “FRASER’S DOLPHIN” as well as the weight and fineness.
The obverse features the Jody Clark effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as well as the monetary denomination and 2021 year-date.
PRESENTATION
Each coin is presented in a protective capsule. Multiples of 10 are presented in a sealed roll.
Technical Specifications
| Year Date | 2021 |
| Silver Content (Troy oz) | 1.000 |
| Monetary Denomination (AUD) | 1.00 |
| Fineness (% purity) | 99.9 |
| Diameter (mm) | 40.00 |
| Finish | Brilliant Uncirculated |
| Maximum Mintage | 25,000 |
| Obverse Designer | J. Clark |
| Reverse Designer | A. Stokic |
ABOUT ROYAL AUSTRALIAN MINT
Anonymous (verified owner) –
Beautiful design by Royal Australian Mint on this Dolphin. Love their old releases and also love this design.
Anonymous (verified owner) –
Good design. Amazing coin. I am glad that Royal Australian Mint is continuing this series.