Australia’s gold rush began around 1851, not long after the California Gold Rush. In fact, it was the large numbers of Australians setting sail for California that convinced the colonial government to encourage mineral exploration and exploitation in the vast territory. Since then, gold and silver production has been a major force in the Australian economy. The country is currently second in the world in gold production and ninth in the production of silver. The Perth Mint, located in the western part of the country, is Australia’s oldest operating mint and official bullion mint providing a variety of designs to silver, gold, and coin buyers across the world.
Australian Gold Coins
In addition to its rich metal deposits, Australia is known for the abundance and variety of its wildlife, many species of which are found nowhere else. One of Australia’s most famous coin designs depicts perhaps its most iconic animal, the kangaroo. The gold kangaroo is struck in weights between 1/10 oz up to 2 oz and is certified by the Perth Mint to be 99.99% pure gold.
Australian Silver Coins
Keeping with the animal theme, Australia’s two best-known silver coin designs, also certified at 99.99% purity, depict the kookaburra and the koala. Silver Koalas are available from 1/10 oz all the way up to a kilogram, while the latest version of the silver kookaburra struck in 2018 will be offered in 1 oz, 10 oz, and 1 kilo.
Palladium and Platinum
Australia’s precious metal deposits are not limited to gold and silver alone. The Perth Mint has recently begun striking coins in palladium and platinum. The platinum coins depict, of course, a platypus while the palladium coins feature either the koala, kangaroo, or emu design.
Gold and coin buyers have the opportunity to own pieces of history and culture from around the world. At Atlanta Gold & Coin Buyers, we are a PCGS and NGC authorized coin dealer and deal in certified and raw gold, silver, and precious metal coins from all over the world. We buy a wide assortment of coins and are fully transparent, posting all our buying rates online and providing free appraisals, so our customers know exactly what they’re getting. If you’re interested in buying or selling coins, schedule an appointment today.
