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 Wedge-Tailed 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 2015 Australian Wedge-Tailed Eagle 1oz Silver Bullion Coin is struck by The Perth Mint from 99.9% pure silver, and issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965. This coin has an unlimited worldwide mintage.

DESIGN 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 2015 year-date and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark. The coin’s obverse depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the monetary denomination.

ABOUT THE DESIGNER The Perth Mint commissioned American sculptor and engraver, John M. Mercanti, the 12th chief engraver of the U.S. Mint. John Mercanti created the reverse design of the American Silver Eagle bullion coin and has produced more coin and medal designs than any other employee in the history of the U.S. Mint.

PRESENTATION The Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle 1oz Silver Bullion Coin is presented in an acrylic capsule.