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The Australian Kookaburra Coin Series is one of the Perth Mint’s most iconic and sought-after bullion programs, prized by collectors and investors worldwide.
First launched in 1990 with the Silver Kookaburra, this series quickly became a favorite for its annually changing reverse stamps featuring Australia’s native laughing bird.
Due to growing popularity, the Kookaburra lineup expanded to include .9999 fine gold coins, offering investors a premium bullion option backed by Australia’s government and struck by one of the world’s most respected refineries.
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Launched in 1990, initially as a silver coin series.
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Obverse: Shows the current British monarch.
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Features annually changing reverse designs of the native laughing kookaburra.
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Expanded to include .9999 fine gold coins due to growing demand.
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Coins are legal tender in Australia and backed by the government.
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Offered in proof and brilliant uncirculated finishes.
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Available sizes: 1/10 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/2 oz, 1 oz, 2 oz, and 5 oz.
The Australian Gold Kookaburra Series
Launched in 1990, the Australian Gold Kookaburra Series quickly became one of the Perth Mint’s most celebrated coin programs.
Issued annually in both silver and gold bullion, and more recently in platinum, each release showcases a new reverse design featuring the kookaburra, an iconic symbol of the Australian wilderness.
Meet the Kookaburra
The laughing kookaburra, native to eastern Australia, is the largest member of the kingfisher family. Known for its loud, echoing call that sounds like human laughter, the kookaburra is one of Australia’s most recognizable and beloved birds.
Originally forest dwellers, kookaburras evolved a unique hunting style, perching silently on tree branches before swooping down to capture prey. Their unmistakable call can be heard across the continent, from the remote outback to suburban backyards.
The kookaburra is a symbol of resilience, adaptability, and the untamed spirit of Australia, traits that make it a perfect ambassador for this cherished coin series.
The Design
The Reverse
Each annual release features a fresh and beautifully detailed portrayal of the kookaburra in its natural environment. These rotating designs have become a signature of the series, capturing the bird’s character and charm while keeping the program dynamic and highly collectible.
Alongside the imagery, the reverse includes standard inscriptions such as “KOOKABURRA,” the year of issue, the coin’s weight, metal content, fineness, and a discreet “P” mintmark representing the Perth Mint.
The Obverse
The obverse pays tribute to Australia’s identity as a Commonwealth nation by showcasing the effigy of the reigning British monarch.
When the series began, it featured Queen Elizabeth II, first with Raphael Maklouf’s portrait, followed by Ian Rank-Broadley’s illustration from 1999 to 2017, and then Jody Clark’s final depiction from 2018 through 2023.
A historic shift occurred in 2024, when the Kookaburra Series introduced its first-ever portrait of King Charles III. Created by Dan Thorne, this new effigy presents the king in left-profile relief, without a crown, symbolizing a more modern royal image.
Technical Specs and Key Features
Australian Gold Kookaburras are made from 99.99% pure gold and are recognized as legal tender under Australian law, each carrying a designated face value backed by the Australian government.
They are available in both brilliant uncirculated and proof finishes, with select editions also offered in high relief, showcasing the intricate artistry of the kookaburra design in stunning detail.
Weight Variations
The Australian Gold Kookaburras are available in several sizes, including 1/10 oz (AUD 10), 1/4 oz (AUD 25), 1/2 oz (AUD 50), 1 oz (AUD 100), 2 oz (AUD 200), and 5 oz (AUD 500).
Remarkable Releases
The Perth Mint's 125th Anniversary
Celebrating the Perth Mint’s 125th anniversary in 2014, special commemorative editions were released bearing a discreet “P125” engraving marking this milestone for one of Australia’s most famous series.
2025: Celebrating the Series’ 35th Anniversary
The year 2025 marks the 35th anniversary of the beloved Australian Kookaburra Coin Series, which first debuted in 1990. To honor this milestone, the Perth Mint has released a special edition that continues the tradition of annual artistry while paying tribute to the series’ legacy.
The reverse of the 2025 Gold Kookaburra features a beautifully rendered image of a kookaburra perched on a tree branch, wings tucked at its sides as it turns to glance back toward the viewer. Behind it, a rising sun radiates across the field, adding warmth and symbolic depth to the scene.
A privy mark commemorates the original 1990 Kookaburra release, incorporating sunburst lines that echo the coin’s celebratory spirit along with the inscription “KOOKABURRA 35th ANNIVERSARY.”
Crafted with an extra-deep blank, this high relief version brings exceptional detail and dimension to the design, making the 2025 issue not just a continuation of the series, but a standout collectible in its own right.
About the Perth Mint
The Perth Mint has a long and respected history in the world of precious metals. Originally established in 1899 as a branch of Great Britain’s Royal Mint, it’s now owned by the Government of Western Australia. It plays a significant role in delivering Australia’s legal tender coins, working with the Royal Australian Mint.
While it began with refining gold sovereigns and half-sovereigns, the Perth Mint has evolved into one of the most trusted names in gold and silver. Today, it’s known worldwide for crafting high-quality coins, bars, and medals that appeal to investors and collectors.
Purchase Australian Gold Kookaburra Coins at SD Bullion
Explore our selection of Australian Gold Kookaburras today. Shop now to add a timeless symbol of Australia’s heritage and lasting value to your portfolio.
FAQs
What sizes do Gold Kookaburra coins come in?
Gold Kookaburras are primarily available in the popular 1-ounce size. The Perth Mint offers fractional sizes, such as 1/10 oz, as well as larger sizes for special editions. The 1 Troy z size option remains the most widely produced and sought-after, striking a balance between affordability and significant gold content.
How often does the design change?
The coin’s reverse design changes annually, featuring a new depiction of the kookaburra in its natural habitat each year. This tradition has continued since the series launched in 1990, making every edition unique. The evolving illustrations keep the series fresh, highly collectible, and appealing to those who value gold purity and artistic variety.
How limited are the mintage numbers?
Mintage numbers for Gold Kookaburras vary yearly but are generally limited to maintain exclusivity. The Perth Mint often caps production to create scarcity, especially for proof and high-relief editions. This limited mintage boosts collectibility and potential value appreciation over time, attracting those who seek rare and desirable precious metal coins.
How are the coins packaged?
Gold Kookaburras typically come in protective capsules to preserve their condition. Proof and special edition coins often arrive in elegant presentation cases or display boxes, sometimes accompanied by certificates of authenticity. This packaging safeguards the samples while enhancing their appeal as collectible items or gifts.
What portrait appears on the obverse?
The most recent obverse stamp displays the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom. Since 2024, this has been King Charles III, depicted in a left-profile relief created by Dan Thorne. Prior to that, Queen Elizabeth II’s portraits by various artists appeared, reflecting Australia’s status within the Commonwealth.
What is the difference between bullion and proof Kookaburra coins?
Bullion Kookaburra coins are crafted with a brilliant uncirculated finish, emphasizing gold content and affordability. Proof versions are struck with special dies, resulting in mirror-like fields and frosted details, appealing to collectors due to their superior craftsmanship and limited mintage. Proof options often come in presentation cases, adding to their collectible value.
How can I verify the authenticity of a Gold Kookaburra coin?
Authenticity can be verified by purchasing from reputable dealers, checking for the Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark, and examining the coin’s weight, dimensions, and design details. High-quality packaging and certificates of authenticity often accompany genuine samples. Professional grading services can also authenticate and grade them for added assurance and confidence.
What is the significance of the “P” mintmark on Kookaburra coins?
The “P” mintmark identifies that the production took place at the Perth Mint, an internationally respected producer of precious metals. This mark guarantees authenticity, government backing, and high-quality craftsmanship. It’s a trusted symbol that assures the products meet strict standards.
Where are Australian Gold Kookaburra coins minted?
Australian Gold Kookaburras are produced exclusively at the Perth Mint, located in Western Australia. Founded in 1899 as a branch of the Royal Mint, it is renowned for its exceptional quality, government backing, and innovative imprints. It remains Australia’s premier producer of legal tender gold bullion coins.
Can I sell my Gold Kookaburra 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 Kookaburra 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.