May 14, 2015 – In the lead-up to Australia Day, two iconic Australian brands, the Royal Australian Mint (the Mint) and Australian Geographic, in true Aussie spirit, have teamed up to recognise Aussie icons on a new collectable $5 coin.
Royal Australian Mint Acting Chief Executive Officer Mr Dom Appay said it was only fitting for the two Australian organisations to partner together ahead of Australia Day to recognise what is truly Australian in the best way they know how.
“The Royal Australian Mint and Australian Geographic both have proud traditions of sharing stories with Australia – one through the traditional means like publications and the other through coin art,” said Mr Appay.
Australia / 2015 / 5 $ / Metal: Al Zn Br / 38.74 mm / 20.00 g / Design: Jim Tsinganos / Mintage: 30,000.
“This coin design symbolises our national identity and is a great way to capture the true essence of the Australian spirit as well as provide a medium to share this story for years to come.”
From 100 distinct and individual Aussie icons that were artfully woven into a design by award-winning illustrator Jim Tsinganos, the Mint has captured a select few to feature on this meticulously designed coin.
“The sculpted elements on the coin feature all things Australian like bounding kangaroos, the Sydney Opera House, golden wattle and the kookaburra. Through colour print technology, the central design features the notorious Ned Kelly, the Australian flag, the instantly recognisable surf lifesaver and a didgeridoo – to name a few,” said Mr Appay.
“It is also a great ‘one-stop-shop’ souvenir idea for visitors to Australia who are looking for something to remember their visit by.”
To celebrate Australia Day, the Mint is heading down to Federation Square in Melbourne with an Australia Day Pop-up Shop, where it will be one of the first places to get your hands on the aptly titled Distinctly Australian coin among other great Australiana-themed coins.
For more information on the Australia Day Pop-up Shop, please follow this link.
The 2015 $5 Coloured Frosted Uncirculated Coin retails for $50 each and is available at the eShop of the Mint or by calling the Contact Centre on 1300 652 020.
To learn more about the Australia Day you may visit this website.