Buy Australian Kangaroo Gold Coins
-
.9999 fine gold, legal tender from the Perth Mint (since 1986)
-
Annual design changes featuring Australia’s iconic kangaroo
-
Available in sizes from 1/20 oz to 1 kilo
-
Latest obverse features King Charles III (2024 debut)
-
Advanced security with MintID NFC tech & micro-engraving
Known for top-quality gold products, the Perth Mint’s Australian Gold Kangaroo is one of its brightest stars.
In addition to other favorites like the Kookaburra, Koala, and Lunar Series, these gold coins stand out for their unique features and trusted purity.
What makes them extra special? Each year brings a brand-new kangaroo design, making them a beloved choice for collectors.
The Origins: From Australian Nugget to Gold Kangaroo
When the Perth Mint launched the series back in 1986, it was actually called the Australian Nugget, featuring images of real nuggets on the reverse side.
That changed in 1989, when the mint introduced the kangaroo design, instantly strengthening the series' connection to Australia’s identity. From then on, the series took on the name Gold Kangaroo and became even more popular.
Like other Perth Mint favorites, the Gold Kangaroo adopted an annual rotating design, giving the numismatic world something new and exciting to look forward to each year.
Get to Know the Perth Mint
The Perth Mint has been in operation since 1899. It was initially set up as a branch of Britain’s Royal Mint during Australia’s gold rush. Back then, its job was to refine precious metals and turn them into coins that would power the growing economy.
Fast-forward to today, and it remains strong. Now owned by the Government of Western Australia, it’s the official producer of Australia’s sovereign gold and silver coins, and the remaining Royal Mint branch is still operating down under.
The Symbol: the Kangaroo
The Perth Mint loves celebrating Australian wildlife, and the kangaroo is a true icon of the country. It takes center stage in one of the mint’s most popular coin programs.
Kangaroos are the largest marsupials on the planet and belong to the Macropodidae family, which means “big foot.” They are exclusively found in the wild, anywhere but Australia.
While many people think of it as just one animal, four species are hopping around the country: the red, eastern grey, western grey, and antilopine ones. The red one is the one most folks picture, thanks to its rusty coat and tall stance.
Beyond coins, the kangaroo is a true national symbol. It’s featured on the national coat of arms, appears on official currency, and is used by organizations like Qantas Airlines and the Royal Australian Air Force. Fun fact: Australia is home to 34 million kangaroos, more than its human population.
Design Evolution Through the Years
The Reverse Design
One of the biggest draws of the series is its ever-changing design.
The reverse showcases a new take on the kangaroo in its natural habitat.
While the theme remains constant, the artwork itself is refreshed annually. Over the decades, we've seen kangaroos hopping, resting, gathering in groups, or bounding across the desert, all brought to life by different artists and engravers.
The Obverse
The obverse features the reigning monarch, reflecting Australia’s status as a Commonwealth nation.
From 1986 to 1998, it displayed Raphael Maklouf’s portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Ian Rank-Broadley’s version followed from 1999 through 2017.
Then, starting in 2018, Jody Clark’s final portrait of Queen Elizabeth II appeared until 2023.
A historic change came in 2024, when the collection introduced its first-ever portrait of King Charles III, designed by Dan Thorne. This marked a new chapter for the series.
Technical Specs and Key Features
Australian Gold Kangaroos are official legal tender, backed by the Australian government for their weight and purity. Each sample has a face value, but they’re traded based on their metal content, market value, and the Perth Mint’s reputation for quality.
They offer a blend of trusted gold weight, beautiful design, and government-backed security, making them a solid pick for anyone in the precious metals market.
Weight and Size Variations
The Australian Kangaroo gold coin is available in various sizes. It is made of .9999 fine gold, and while the 1 oz version is the most popular, the Perth Mint has issued several fractional and large-format sizes in bullion and proof versions over the years.
Here are the main size options that have been released:
-
1/20 oz – Face value: AUD 5
-
1/10 oz – Face value: AUD 10
-
1/4 oz – Face value: AUD 25
-
1/2 oz – Face value: AUD 50
-
1 oz – Face value: AUD 100
-
2 oz – Occasionally released
-
5 oz – Occasionally released
-
10 oz – Occasionally released
-
1 Kilogram (32.15 oz) – Occasionally released
Security Features and Authentication
The Australian Kangaroo is also one of the most secure gold bullion coins.
Since it jumped from the Gold Nugget to the Gold Kangaroo in 1990, this series has earned a reputation for quality, purity, and stunning detail. Thanks to the latest technology, buyers can enjoy an even higher level of protection.
They come packaged by MintID, offering some of the most advanced security in the market.
Each unit is sealed in a tamper-proof card containing a 128-bit encrypted NFC microchip. Scan it with your smartphone using the free MintID app, and you’ll instantly access a unique digital certificate confirming your coin’s authenticity. If anyone tampers with the chip, it automatically deactivates, helping to protect from fraud. No personal info or financial details are needed.
Remarkable Releases in the Gold Kangaroo Series
Over the years, the Perth Mint has surprised with some truly standout versions of the Gold Australian Kangaroo, and a few of them have become legends of global recognition.
Take 2014, for example. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the series, the Mint released a special 1 oz Gold Proof sample. This limited-edition sample features the original 1989 red kangaroo design that launched the program. Around the image, inscriptions marked the occasion: “Australian Kangaroo 1 oz 9999 Gold” and the dual date “1989–2014.”
Another fun addition is the Mini Roo series, introduced in 2010. These tiny samples contain just 1/2 gram of .9999 pure gold. The design is striking but straightforward, just the kangaroo, no background scene, the mint’s “P” mark, and the inscription “0.5 Gram 9999 Gold.” Despite their size, they hold official currency status with a face value of AUD 2.
And then there’s the showstopper: the 1 tonne Gold Kangaroo Coin, released in 2012. Weighing in at over 31,000 troy ounces, this monster still holds the Guinness World Record for the largest gold coin ever struck. Even at that massive scale, the Perth Mint stuck to its high standards, crafting the coin to match the quality and detail of standard issues.
Also in 2024, celebrating the Perth Mint’s 125th anniversary, special commemorative Kangaroo editions were released. These limited editions bear a discreet “P125” engraving marking this milestone for one of Australia’s most famous series.
FAQs
Do Australian Gold Kangaroo coins change design every year?
Yes, its design changes every year. The Perth Mint releases a new design annually, showcasing the native marsupial in different poses and settings. This yearly update keeps the series fresh and visually interesting, making each sample unique while maintaining the same high purity and craftsmanship that defines the collection.
Are Gold Kangaroos legal tender in Australia?
Australian Gold Kangaroo coins are legal tender, with face values that vary depending on the coin’s size. Issued by the Perth Mint, they carry a monetary denomination guaranteed by the Australian government. However, their market price is based on their gold content and often far exceeds the assigned face value, reflecting their precious metal worth.
What sizes are available for Gold Kangaroo coins?
Australian Gold Kangaroo coins come in various sizes, including 1/10 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/2 oz, and 1 oz, all struck from .9999 fine gold. Additionally, the Perth Mint has occasionally released larger versions in 2 oz, 5 oz, 10 oz, and even 1 kilogram (32.15 oz) weights, offering options for various preferences and budgets.
What’s the difference between Gold Kangaroo coins, American Gold Eagles, and Canadian Gold Maple Leaf coins?
Gold Kangaroos are Australian coins known for annual kangaroo designs and .9999 purity. Gold Eagles, from the U.S., have .9167 purity and depict Lady Liberty designs. Gold Maples, from Canada, offer .9999 purity with a classic maple leaf motif. Each reflects its country’s culture and minting standards, appealing to investors through unique designs and varying gold content.
Are Gold Kangaroo coins IRA-eligible in the United States?
Gold Australian Kangaroo gold coins are eligible for inclusion in a self-directed IRA in the United States. They meet the IRS requirements by being at least 99.5% pure gold and typically come in uncirculated condition. This eligibility makes them a recognized investment for those seeking to add high-quality gold bullion coins to their retirement accounts.
Why do some Australian Gold Kangaroo coins say "Nugget" on them?
The Gold Kangaroo, first issued in 1987, began as the Australian Gold Nugget. Early coins featured images of famous Australian nuggets on the reverse, hence the name. In 1989, the design changed to showcase the iconic kangaroo, but the “Nugget” name persisted. Today, both names are used interchangeably, reflecting the coin’s history and evolving design.
What kind of security features do Gold Kangaroo coins have?
Gold Kangaroo coins include a micro-laser-engraved letter on the reverse, visible only under magnification, providing advanced anti-counterfeiting protection. Each carries the Perth Mint’s “P” mint mark and is struck from 99.99% pure gold. Coins are typically encapsulated to preserve their condition and may come in sealed packaging, enhancing security and ensuring authenticity throughout their lives.
Can I travel internationally with Gold Kangaroo coins?
Yes, you can travel internationally with them. However, regulations vary by country. For instance, when entering the United States, you must declare gold coins to Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Similarly, other countries may demand specific declaration requirements or import duties. It's advisable to research the regulations of your destination country before traveling.
Do Gold Kangaroos have numismatic or collector value?
YYes, they are numismatically relevant because each year features a unique design and limited releases. While they are mainly valuable for their gold content, the annual design changes make them attractive to those who appreciate the artistry and rarity. This combination gives them appeal beyond their bullion content, increasing their desirability in the market.
Can I sell my Gold Kangaroo coins back to SD Bullion?
Yes. SD Bullion offers a buyback service with three easy-to-follow steps. Our team is constantly buying bullion to update our inventory. You can reach out to our representatives at 1-800-294-8732.
How are Gold Kangaroo coins packaged for delivery?
All SD Bullion orders are fully insured during shipping, protecting against loss or damage. Purchases over a certain price qualify for free shipping and insurance, while smaller orders have a flat lower fee. Packages are shipped via USPS, UPS, or FedEx and may require a signature upon delivery. SD Bullion ensures all orders arrive safely at their destination.