2026 Butterfly 2oz Antiqued Silver Coin

Celebrate the enchanting beauty of the Ulysses butterfly with the Perth Mint’s exquisitely crafted 2026 2oz Silver Antiqued Coloured Coin – a collector’s piece that captures the magic of one of nature’s most dazzling icons.

Striking and unforgettable, the Ulysses butterfly (Papilio ulysses) is famed for its vivid, electric-blue wings that shimmer with iridescence. Often called the blue emperor or blue mountain swallowtail, this magnificent species is native to the lush tropical regions of Australia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands.

With a wingspan reaching up to 14 cm, the Ulysses butterfly reveals a brilliant blue flash in flight, while the soft brown underside of its wings provides natural camouflage when at rest. Its radiant colouration is created by microscopic scales that reflect and refract light – a natural phenomenon beautifully echoed in the artistry of this coin. Frequently seen gliding through rainforest canopies and vibrant gardens, especially near native citrus trees, the Ulysses butterfly is a symbol of transformation, vitality, and the wonder of the natural world.

Struck by The Perth Mint from 2oz of 99.99% pure silver, the coin is issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965.

The Perth Mint will release no more than 2,000 of the Butterfly 2026 2oz Silver Antiqued Coloured Coin.

DESIGN

The coin’s coloured reverse features a magnificent Ulysses butterfly at its centre, accompanied by three smaller butterflies in flight. Surrounding the scene are vibrant depictions of native flora, including the golden blooms of goodenia and the delicate pink blossoms of Euodia, celebrated as the Ulysses butterfly’s favourite food.

Struck design elements include the distinctive Cape York lily and the graceful bower of beauty species. Included in the design is a ribbon scroll with the inscription ‘BUTTERFLY’, along with the coin’s weight, purity, 2026 year-date and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

The coin’s obverse portrays the Dan Thorne effigy of His Majesty King Charles III and monetary denomination.

This coin has been individually ‘antiqued’ to give it a unique finish conveying the surface abrasions of an ancient artefact. As a result of this treatment, the appearance of each coin in the mintage may vary.

PRESENTATION

Accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity, the coin comes in a classic display case with a clear lid and a butterfly-themed illustrated shipper.

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.