The series features some of the more popular residents of this exceptional zoo located in the state of Queensland which also brings greater attention to habitat and conservation initiatives. This year’s coins featuring the giraffe, follows up from last year with the Southern White Rhinoceros, the African and Asian Elephant in 2022, the cheetah in 2021 and the Sumatran tiger in 2020. The Royal Australian Mint and Australia Zoo work closely with conservation organisations in Africa to help protect these important and critically endangered species.
The design focuses on Giraffes, with the size and elegance of this mighty creature artistically conveyed on the reverse. Giraffes are native to Africa and are now a near-threatened species due to illegal poaching and habitat destruction. With their towering presence and distinctive patterns, visitors can easily spot them in their re-created African savannah habitat at Australia Zoo. These graceful giants can weigh over 1,300 kilograms or 2900 pounds and grow to more than five metres or 16 feet tall. Despite their impressive stature, these gentle giants are often seen in groups colloquially known as towers. Utilising their unique long neck and tongue, the giraffe is able to consume up to 45kilograms or nearly 100 pounds of leaves per day. Female giraffes take a considerable amount of time nurturing their calf, with a gestation period of nearly 15 months. During the time of gestation, the calf is able to fully develop and is ready to thrive in the challenging African environment.
Designed by artist Aleksandra Stokic, the reverse side of both gold and silver investment coins are based on recent photographs of two different images of the giraffe.
$1 Silver – The reverse side depicts a head shot of an adult and young giraffe, in the background is a reference to their native habitat on the plains of Africa, and to the right is an acacia tree, one of their primary sources of food. To the lower left is the text is the text AUSTRALIA ZOO GIRAFFE along with the coins’ specifications of 1 oz .999 Ag.
$100 Gold – The reverse side of the gold investment coin depicts two standing giraffes, mother and calf as they are observed in the African Savannah enclosure in Australia Zoo. To the left of the primary design is the text AUSTRALIA ZOO GIRAFFE along with the coins’ specifications of 1 oz .9999 Au.
The obverse side for both gold and silver options includes the definitive effigy of HM King Charles III created by engraver Dan Thorne. The coins carry the year 2024 which is part of the legend surrounding the effigy. The denomination 100 DOLLARS (gold) or 1 DOLLAR (silver) is placed just below the King’s likeness.
Denomination | Metal | Weight | Diameter | Quality | Mintage |
1 Dollar | .999 Silver | 31.1 g. | 40 mm. | BU | 25,000 |
100 Dollars | 999.9 Gold | 31.1 g. | 38.7 mm. | BU | 250 |
The silver coins are encapsulated and available in multiples of 25 housed in coin tubes. The bullion quality gold coins are encapsulated and presented in a Royal Australian Mint-branded custom case accompanied with certificate of authenticity and illustrated slipcase. Both are available either directly from the Royal Australian Mint for those resident in Australia or from a reputable bullion dealer in your region / country. For additional information, please visit their e-webshop.
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