Item: Perth Mint 2011 Australian Antarctic Territory Series Killer Whale 1oz Silver Proof Coin

Issue Mint: The Perth Mint

Legal Tender: Australian $1

Mintage: 7,500

Material: 1 Troy oz 99.9% Silver

Condition: Brand New in original issue condition. The coin is housed in a charcoal-coloured presentation case, which comes within a stylish outer shipper, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

Issue Price: $105.00 (Sold Out at Mint)

Release Date: April 2011

Theme Background

The eighth coin from this amazingly popular series is struck from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality and features the majestic Orca or Killer Whale.

The killer whale is a toothed whale belonging to the oceanic dolphin family. Killer whales have sophisticated social structures, hunting techniques and vocal behaviours, which are passed across generations. They also have keen hearing and good eyesight, both in and out of water, and a developed sense of touch.

The killer whale's large size and strength make it one of the fastest of marine mammals. The average lifespan of males and female varies according to habitat and lifestyle. The female killer whale is thought to live the longest, to a maximum age of 80 to 90 years.

Commercial whaling and pollution have threatened whale populations, although there are many organisations that work towards the conservation of these extraordinary creatures.

Design

The coin’s reverse depicts a dual design of a mature killer whale and calf in colour under the sea, and a struck design showing an adult leaping from an ocean of floating icebergs. The background incorporates the outline of the Antarctic continent bordered by the inscriptions 2011 – KILLER WHALE and ‘Australian Antarctic Territory’. The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark is also incorporated into the design.

Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, the coin’s obverse depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the monetary denomination.

Technical Specifications