The 1 oz Australian Platinum Koala Coin is a distinguished bullion release from the Perth Mint that celebrates one of Australia’s most beloved native animals. First introduced in 1988, the Platinum Koala Series was among the earliest platinum bullion programs in the world and played an important role in establishing platinum as an investment metal. Each year, the Perth Mint released new reverse artwork featuring the koala, adding a collectible element to these already valuable coins. Today, 1 oz Australian Platinum Koala Coins from random years are available online at ITM Trading in varied condition.
Coin Highlights:
- Issued by the Perth Mint beginning in 1988.
- Contains 1 Troy oz of .9995 fine platinum.
- Issued with a face value of $100 (AUD), backed by the Australian government.
- Part of one of the world’s first platinum bullion coin series.
- Obverse features Queen Elizabeth II or King Charles III, depending on year of issue.
- Reverse showcases a koala design that changes annually.
- Available in random year and varied condition.
The obverse of the 1 oz Platinum Koala Coin displays the official effigy of the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth at the time of minting. For most of the series, this was Queen Elizabeth II, depicted in several different effigy designs over the decades. In future issues, King Charles III will take his place on the obverse. Accompanying inscriptions include the monarch’s name, the nation of issue, and the coin’s face value.
On the reverse, the Perth Mint highlights the koala, one of Australia’s most recognizable marsupials. Much like the Silver Kookaburra or Silver Koala series, the Platinum Koala featured annually changing designs. Collectors will encounter a variety of depictions, from koalas resting in eucalyptus trees to close-up portraits of their distinctive features. This artistic variation adds to the numismatic appeal and ensures that no two years look exactly alike.
The Platinum Koala played a pioneering role in global bullion. At its introduction in 1988, few platinum bullion coins were available to investors, giving this series historical importance as well as investment value. Although the Perth Mint eventually shifted focus to other platinum products, the Koala remains a significant part of bullion coin history.
Each 1 oz Australian Platinum Koala offered here comes in varied condition, with random year selection. Some coins may show signs of handling or toning, while others retain more of their original mint luster. Regardless of appearance, all coins contain the same guaranteed platinum content and purity, backed by the Perth Mint and the Australian government.
For investors, the Platinum Koala provides a secure way to diversify into platinum, while collectors enjoy the artistry and legacy of one of the earliest platinum bullion programs. Combining rarity, beauty, and history, the 1 oz Australian Platinum Koala remains a standout choice in the world of precious metals.
