1990 - 2015: 25yrs of the Kookaburra
The 2015 Australian Kookaburra 1oz Silver Coin is a landmark release from the Perth Mint, marking the 25th anniversary of one of the world's most popular silver bullion series. First introduced in 1990, the series is renowned for its annually changing reverse designs, but for this milestone year, the mint uniquely chose to reissue the original 1990 design as a tribute to its heritage.
The reverse features an adult kookaburra perched on a tree stump, surrounded by native eucalyptus leaves and a fern. To distinguish it from the 1990 original, the 2015 version includes:
- Dual Dating: The reverse inscription reads "1990 - 2015".
- Special Mint Mark: A unique "P25" mint mark is included, signifying 25 years of the series.
- Modern Obverse: It features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, which was not used on the original 1990 coins.
- Face Value: The denomination is $1 AUD, whereas the 1990 1oz coin carried a $5 face value.
Struck from 1 troy ounce of 99.9% pure silver, the coin has a diameter of 40.60mm and a thickness of approximately 3.5mm.
The 2015 bullion edition was subject to a maximum mintage of 500,000 coins, a limit that has been consistent for the 1oz Kookaburra since 2011. Beyond the standard bullion strike, the Perth Mint also released several collectible variants.
