Few bullion series capture the heart of collectors and investors quite like the Australian Silver Koala. Since its debut in 2007, this annual release from the Perth Mint has become a firm favorite, standing proudly alongside the Kookaburra and Kangaroo series. With a new design each year, the Koala silver coin offers both investment-grade silver and artistic collectability, making it a staple in many precious metal portfolios.
The 2015 Australian Silver Koala continues this tradition with a beautifully detailed design, showcasing one of Australia’s most iconic creatures. Struck in .999 fine silver and weighing one troy ounce, this coin is not only a celebration of Australia’s wildlife but also a high-quality addition for anyone stacking silver.
Despite being commonly referred to as a "Koala Bear," the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is actually a marsupial, not a bear. The name "Koala" originates from an Aboriginal word meaning "doesn’t drink", as these animals primarily obtain moisture from the Eucalyptus leaves they consume. Found only in eastern and southern Australia, koalas spend most of their lives climbing and sleeping in eucalyptus trees, conserving energy by dozing for up to 18–22 hours a day.
Though they appear gentle and slow-moving, koalas are well-adapted to their environment, with strong limbs, sharp claws, and a keen sense of smell to help them navigate their treetop homes. Their dependence on eucalyptus forests makes them vulnerable to habitat destruction, adding an environmental awareness aspect to this coin’s significance.
The reverse of the 2015 Koala coin features a resting koala perched on a eucalyptus branch, surrounded by its signature leaves. The detail in the fur, bark, and foliage makes this one of the most intricate designs in the series. The inscriptions "AUSTRALIAN KOALA" arch over the top, while the year "2015," weight "1 oz.," and silver purity "999 SILVER" appear below. On the right side, the Perth Mint’s "P" mintmark adds an official touch of authenticity.
On the obverse, the coin displays the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. As with all Australian legal tender, the inscriptions "ELIZABETH II," "AUSTRALIA," and the face value of "1 DOLLAR" encircle the Queen’s portrait, reinforcing the coin’s official status.
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One of the standout features of the Koala series is that the design changes every year, unlike many bullion coins that maintain a consistent image. This means each release brings something new, adding a collectible appeal beyond just silver content.
For investors, the 2015 Australian Silver Koala is an attractive choice due to its .999 fine silver purity, trusted Perth Mint production, and status as legal tender. It also benefits from being VAT-free in many regions, making it a tax-efficient way to own silver.
Whether you're a numismatist, a silver stacker, or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of wildlife coins, the 2015 Australian Silver Koala 1oz coin is a fantastic addition to any collection. With a unique annual design, high silver purity, and a connection to Australia’s rich biodiversity, this coin remains a standout in the world of precious metals.
Do you already have a Koala in your collection, or is this one you're considering adding to your stack?
I've only picked up the odd Koala but never endeavored to acquire up the whole set.
!BBH
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