2020 1.5 oz Australian Striped Marlin Silver Coin

The 2020 1.5 oz Australian Striped Marlin Silver Coin captures the essence of one of the ocean's most majestic creatures, immortalizing it in pure silver. This coin pays homage to the striped marlin, a species that has long captivated anglers and marine enthusiasts alike with its striking appearance and incredible speed.

The striped marlin, known scientifically as Kajikia audax, is a true marvel of the sea. With its sleek, torpedo-like body adorned with vibrant blue stripes, this billfish is not only a sight to behold but also one of the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of reaching speeds up to 80 kilometers per hour. This incredible velocity, combined with its acrobatic leaps and powerful runs, has made the striped marlin a prized catch for sport fishermen around the world.

Native to the tropical and temperate waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, the striped marlin has played a significant role in various cultures. In places like New Zealand, where some of the largest specimens have been caught, the striped marlin holds a special place in both recreational fishing and local folklore. Its presence in these waters has contributed to the region's reputation as a premier game fishing destination, attracting anglers from across the globe.

The decision by the Perth Mint to feature the striped marlin on this coin is not merely aesthetic; it also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. As apex predators, marlins play a crucial role in maintaining the health of oceanic food chains. However, like many large pelagic species, striped marlins face challenges from overfishing and changing ocean conditions, making conservation efforts increasingly important.

This coin, therefore, stands as more than just a collectible; it's a miniature marine ambassador, encouraging awareness and appreciation for the biodiversity of our oceans. By choosing to immortalize the striped marlin in silver, the Perth Mint has created a tangible connection between the world of numismatics and marine conservation, allowing collectors to hold a piece of the ocean's majesty in their hands.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2020 Australian Striped Marlin Silver Coin showcases the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark. This portrait, known as the sixth definitive coinage portrait of Her Majesty, depicts the Queen wearing the Royal Diamond Diadem. The obverse also includes the coin's denomination, year of issue, weight, and purity, along with the Queen's name encircling her portrait.

On the reverse, the coin's design truly comes to life with a dynamic representation of the striped marlin. The fish is depicted in mid-leap, its powerful body arched as it breaches the water's surface. The detail in this design is exquisite, capturing the marlin's distinctive features – from its elongated bill to its high dorsal fin and, of course, the characteristic vertical stripes that give the species its name. The background suggests the vastness of the open ocean, with subtle wave patterns enhancing the sense of movement. The Perth Mint's "P" mintmark is also discreetly incorporated into the design, a mark of the coin's authenticity and quality.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9999
• Weight: 1.5 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: The Perth Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Perth
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II
• Reverse: Leaping striped marlin design

Investment Appeal

The 2020 1.5 oz Australian Striped Marlin Silver Coin presents a compelling opportunity for both collectors and investors. Its unique 1.5 oz weight sets it apart from more common 1 oz or 2 oz offerings, providing a distinctive addition to any collection. The coin's exceptional purity of .9999 fine silver ensures its intrinsic value, while the brilliant uncirculated condition preserves its aesthetic appeal.

Produced by the renowned Perth Mint, this coin carries the prestige and quality assurance that comes with one of the world's most respected minting institutions. The Perth Mint's global reputation for excellence adds a layer of confidence for investors concerned with authenticity and liquidity.

The coin's IRA eligibility further enhances its appeal as an investment vehicle, allowing it to be included in precious metals IRAs. This feature provides investors with the opportunity to diversify their retirement portfolios with a tangible asset that combines numismatic interest with precious metal value.

Moreover, the limited nature of themed releases like the Striped Marlin coin often leads to increased collector demand over time. As awareness of marine conservation grows, coins featuring endangered or iconic marine species may see enhanced interest, potentially driving up their numismatic value beyond the spot price of silver.

In essence, this Striped Marlin coin offers a harmonious blend of artistic beauty, precious metal content, and potential for appreciation, making it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their investment portfolio or expand their numismatic collection with a piece that carries both financial and cultural significance.