The Perth Mint has combined traditional craftsmanship with special phosphorescence technology to release its first ever glow-in-the-dark coin.
The unique ink substance, which absorbs photons of light to then release a radiant glow, has been used to showcase Aurora Australis – the latest coin from the highly successful Australian Antarctic Territory series.
The neon curtain of the aurora was a natural choice for the popular collector program, which was created to celebrate the nation’s proud history of exploration and scientific research in the polar south.
“By incorporating glow-in-the-dark ink to illuminate the stunning light spectacle certainly enhances the coin’s design theme and appeal,” said Perth Mint Sales and Marketing Director, Ron Currie.
With the number of Aurora Australis events expected to increase during the next two to three years as the Earth moves towards the peak of a 12-year solar cycle, the timely release of the coin is likely to increase interest among collectors, astronomy enthusiasts and gift buyers.
“The natural phenomenon has fascinated the world for many years, and we’re confident that this innovative release will be just as mesmerising,” Mr Currie continued.
Struck from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver, the breathtaking coin depicts a snowfield with a tracked vehicle and a human observer beneath a coloured representation of the Aurora Australis. Framed with an outline of the Antarctic continent and surrounded by geographic grid lines, the design is bordered by the inscriptions 2013 – AURORA AUSTRALIS and ‘Australian Antarctic Territory’.
Issued as Australian legal tender, the obverse depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the monetary denomination.
The Aurora Australis coin is presented in a classic charcoal-coloured case within a themed shipper and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. To ensure the collectability of the release, only 7,500 of these coins will be released by The Perth Mint for sale worldwide.
Priced at an affordable $104.00, the Aurora Australis coin can be ordered by telephoning The Perth Mint on toll free 1800 098 817 (Australia), +61 8 9421 7218 (International), or by visiting the online shop at www.perthmint.com.au Purchasers can also check availability of the release at their local Australian Post outlet or coin dealer.
For best glow-in-the-dark results, collectors are encouraged to place the coin under direct sunlight for 30 to 60 seconds before viewing in a dark room.
Learn about more of The Perth Mint’s popular collector coins on http://blog.perthmint.com.au/ or follow The Perth Mint on Twitter @perthmint
