The Australian Kookaburra coin series is the longest-running silver bullion program produced by the Perth Mint. Launched in 1990, it helped set the standard for annually changing designs featuring Australias native wildlife. Today, BGASC offers the 1997 1 oz Australian Silver Kookaburra Coin to collectors and investors.

Highlights:

• Arrives in a protective plastic capsule!
• 8th date in the 1 oz Silver Kookaburra Series!
• Final mintage of 159,497 coins!
• Contains 1 Troy oz of .999 pure silver.
• Bears a face value of $1 (AUD) backed by the federal government of Australia.
• Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse.
• A kookaburra is shown with its young chick on the reverse.

Each 1997 1 oz Australian Silver Kookaburra Coin comes packaged in a protective capsule. Although the Perth Mint allowed for a maximum mintage of 300,000 coins, the final mintage number came in at 159,497. This shows how steady demand for the Kookaburra series remained through the 1990s.

Obverse

The obverse side of the 1997 Silver Kookaburra showcases Queen Elizabeth II in right-profile relief. Designed by Raphael Maklouf in 1985, this fourth-generation portrait features Her Majesty wearing the George IV State Diadem. This version of the Queens portrait was used until 1998, making this one of the last appearances on a Kookaburra coin.

Reverse

On the reverse of the coin, a kookaburra is shown feeding its chick in a nest. These birds often choose tree hollows or termite mounds as nesting sites. After hatching, both parents, along with older helpers, work together to bring insects, small reptiles, and other food to the chicks.

History

Kookaburras are well-known for their cooperative breeding habits. Instead of leaving the family to start their own, older offspring often stay behind to help raise the next set of chicks. They share duties like defending the nest, maintaining the territory, and feeding the young birds.

Ordering

If you need help with silver purchases, BGASCs customer service team is ready to assist you. Reach out by calling 888-992-4272, using our web chat, or emailing us.