In the world of coin collecting, unique designs and themes can bring excitement to enthusiasts. The Australia at Night coin program has recently introduced two new coins that celebrate one of the cutest creatures on the planet: the fairy penguin. These nocturnal birds are small yet charming, making them an ideal choice for this themed series showcasing the beauty of Australia at night. This article will explore the details of these coins, the enchanting fairy penguins they celebrate, and the significance of their designs.
| Coin Type | Composition | Denomination | Weight | Diameter | Mintage Limit | Retail Price | Design Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Proof Silver Coin | .999 fine silver | $1 | 31.39 grams | 38.6 millimeters | 1,000 pieces | $114.45 each | Depicts three fairy penguins waddling ashore under a full moon with black treatment simulating nighttime. |
| Proof Gold Coin | .9999 fine gold | $100 | 31.39 grams | 38.6 millimeters | 150 pieces | $2,999.95 each | Similar design with selective platinum plating on parts of the penguins and the moon. |
What Are Fairy Penguins?
Fairy penguins, also known as little penguins, are the smallest species of penguins. Standing at just about 12 inches tall and weighing around 2 pounds, they are truly adorable. These nocturnal birds spend most of their time in the ocean and only come ashore at night, making them a fascinating subject for the Australia at Night coin series.
Habitat and Behavior
Fairy penguins are native to the southern coast of Australia and New Zealand. They nest along these coastal areas, with Phillip Island in Victoria hosting the largest colony, where over 30,000 breeding pairs can be found. Every evening, these charming birds make their way back to shore, and tourists gather to watch this delightful event known as the “penguin parade.” This nightly spectacle inspired the design of the new coins.
Details of the New Coins
The 2024 coin collection features two distinct coins that highlight the beauty of fairy penguins and the allure of nighttime in Australia. Both coins are produced by the Niue mint and showcase impressive artistry.
2024 Black Proof Silver Coin
- Composition: .999 fine silver
- Denomination: $1
- Weight: 31.39 grams
- Diameter: 38.6 millimeters
- Mintage Limit: 1,000 pieces
- Retail Price: $114.45 each
- Design: The reverse of the coin depicts three fairy penguins waddling ashore under a full moon. The black treatment on the coin simulates nighttime, while parts of the penguins and the moon are selectively plated in platinum to enhance their appearance.
2024 Proof Gold Coin
- Composition: .9999 fine gold
- Denomination: $100
- Weight: 31.39 grams
- Diameter: 38.6 millimeters
- Mintage Limit: 150 pieces
- Retail Price: $2,999.95 each
- Design: Similar to the silver coin, the reverse showcases the fairy penguins under the moonlight, with selective platinum plating to bring depth to the design.
Presentation and Packaging
Both coins come beautifully packaged in a clamshell-style case lined with black velvet and satin. They are protected by a full-color outer cardboard box, and each coin includes an individually numbered certificate of authenticity. This attention to detail not only preserves the coins but also makes them excellent collector’s items.
Conclusion
The new fairy penguin coins from the Australia at Night series are not just coins; they are a celebration of a unique animal and its natural habitat. With their charming design and high-quality materials, these coins appeal to both coin collectors and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The fairy penguins’ story is one of resilience and beauty, and the coins serve as a lasting tribute to these remarkable creatures. Whether you are an avid collector or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, these coins are worth considering for your collection.
FAQs
1. What are fairy penguins?
Fairy penguins, also known as little penguins, are the smallest species of penguins. They typically stand about 12 inches tall and weigh around 2 pounds. They are known for their adorable appearance and nocturnal behavior, as they come ashore mainly at night.
2. Where can fairy penguins be found?
Fairy penguins are native to the southern coasts of Australia and New Zealand. Phillip Island in Victoria is home to the largest colony, where over 30,000 breeding pairs reside.
3. What is the significance of the new fairy penguin coins?
The coins are part of the Australia at Night coin program, celebrating the beauty of Australian wildlife during nighttime. They highlight the unique behavior of fairy penguins and aim to raise awareness about this charming species.
4. How many coins were minted for each type?
The Black Proof Silver Coin has a mintage limit of 1,000 pieces, while the Proof Gold Coin is limited to 150 pieces, making them rare collectibles.
5. Where can I purchase these coins?
The coins can be purchased through authorized dealers or coin shops that specialize in numismatic items. Pricing may vary, and it’s advisable to check for quantity discounts.