2013 Australia 1 oz Gold Koala PR-69 PCGS (FS, High Relief)

The Australian Gold Koala was first introduced by the Perth Mint in 2008. Although the Gold Koala is one of the mint’s newer bullion coins, it has already become a favorite among both collectors and investors. Made of .9999 fine Gold and available in sizes of 1/25 oz, 1/10 oz, 1/4 oz, 1 oz and 2 oz, with the occasional ½ gram size, this Gold bullion coin is an excellent addition to any portfolio.

The Australian Gold Koala is among the few bullion coins to change its design annually. The reverse of the coin always features at least one adult koala but eucalyptus leaves and the Outback are often incorporated into the design as well. The obverse depicts the current profile of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at the time of minting.

The Perth Mint was established in 1899, two years before the federation of Australia in 1901. Initially, the mint was established to refine the large amounts of Gold coming in from deposits in Western Australia including Coolgardie, Kalgoorlie and Murchison. The mint also produced Gold sovereigns and half sovereigns to be circulated throughout Britain. Although Australia became an independent nation in 1901, the Perth Mint remained under the purview of the British crown until 1970. Following a 1987 State Act of Parliament, Gold Corporation, a company entirely owned by the Government of Western Australia, was established and mandated to operate the Perth Mint to market their Gold, Silver and Platinum Australian coins overseas.

The Perth Mint is also known for its outstanding quality and industry-leading creations. In 1957, the mint produced a 13 oz proof “plate” of .999999 fine Gold, the highest purity ever achieved. In 2011, they created the world’s largest, heaviest and most valuable Gold coin, containing .9999 fine Gold and weighing 2,231 pounds, that was worth $53.5 million (AUD) at the time of minting.