It would be a fairly quiet month for the Perth Mint if it were not for the release of two new versions of the superb John Mercanti designed Wedge-Tailed Eagle proof silver coin. A standard proof silver version of the previous high-relief coin will undoubtedly be the popular one and while it’s lost a little of it’s impact, it’s a larger coin at 40mm because it doesn’t have to be as thick, and the mintage is half as much, so expect it to fly. The second version, a 5oz high-relief silver is gorgeous. Both have been available in the US for a while, being sold exclusively at GovMint.

The Wedge-Tailed Eagle is Australia’s largest bird of prey and one of the biggest eagles in the world. Found throughout mainland Australia, Tasmania and southern New Guinea, the WedgeTailed Eagle has a wingspan of up to 2.7 metres, and displays a long, wedge-shaped tail and feathered legs. This majestic bird is known to soar through the sky for hours on end, frequently reaching altitudes of up to 2,000 metres. In the heat of the day, the eagle makes use of hot thermal air currents that drift up from the ground to reach these dizzying heights, whilst expending little energy.

The Wedge-Tailed Eagle can be found from sea level areas to alpine regions, though they favour forested land and open country, to rainforests and coastal heaths. They can often be seen perched in trees and on rocks and cliffs, from where they have a clear view of their surroundings, enabling them to defend their territory and identify prey.

The coin’s reverse depicts an impressive Wedge-Tailed Eagle in mid-flight as it prepares to land on a tree branch. The design also includes the inscription AUSTRALIAN WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE, the 2014 year-date and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark. Designed by John Mercanti.

The Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the monetary denomination and the 2014 year-date appear on the coin’s obverse.

This coin is housed in a grey presentation case with a themed, customised shipper and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.