Introduction to the Australian Barrier Reef & Sea Turtle Silver Coin

Introduction to the Australian Barrier Reef & Sea Turtle Silver Coin

The Australian Barrier Reef & Sea Turtle Silver Coin, released in 2016, is a stunning piece of numismatic art that celebrates the natural beauty and ecological significance of the Great Barrier Reef and its inhabitants. This coin, crafted by the Royal Australian Mint, is not just a collectible item but also a symbol of Australia’s commitment to preserving its unique marine environment.

Design and Artistry

The coin features a detailed depiction of a sea turtle, one of the most iconic species found in the Great Barrier Reef. The design is both intricate and beautiful, showcasing the turtle’s graceful form and the vibrant colors of its shell. The coin’s obverse side bears the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley, while the reverse side is dedicated to the sea turtle and the reef.

The coin’s design is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Royal Australian Mint. The relief of the sea turtle is finely detailed, capturing the texture of its shell and the intricate patterns on its skin. The coin’s coloration is also impressive, with a rich silver tone that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green of the turtle’s shell and the blue of the ocean.

Technical Specifications

The Australian Barrier Reef & Sea Turtle Silver Coin is a .9999 fine silver coin, making it one of the purest silver coins available. It has a diameter of 40mm and a thickness of 2.80mm. The coin’s weight is 31.103 grams, and it has a mintage limit of 10,000 pieces. The coin is also legal tender in Australia, with a face value of 30 Australian dollars.

Here is a table summarizing the technical specifications of the coin:

Symbolism and Conservation

The Australian Barrier Reef & Sea Turtle Silver Coin carries a strong message of conservation. The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is home to a vast array of marine life, including over 1,500 fish species, 411 mollusk species, 22 species of marine mammal, and over 1,500 species of coral.

The coin’s design highlights the importance of protecting this delicate ecosystem. The sea turtle, in particular, is a symbol of the reef’s resilience and the need for ongoing conservation efforts. The coin’s release in 2016, the International Year of the Ocean, further emphasizes the global significance of marine conservation.

Collectibility and Value

The Australian Barrier Reef & Sea Turtle Silver Coin is highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. Its limited mintage, high silver content, and beautiful design make it a valuable addition to any collection. The coin’s value is not only in its numismatic worth but also in its contribution to the cause of marine conservation.

As a collectible, the coin is graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with 70 being the highest grade. The coin’s condition, including factors such as luster, strike, and surface quality, plays a significant role in determining its grade and value.

Conclusion

The Australian Barrier Reef & Sea Turtle Silver Coin is a remarkable piece of art that combines beauty, symbolism, and conservation. Its intricate design, high silver content, and limited mintage make it a valuable and cherished item for collectors and investors. By celebrating the Great Barrier Reef and its inhabitants, this coin serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our planet’s natural wonders for future generations.