2022 2 oz Australia Killer Whale Silver Coin

In the azure depths of Australia’s coastal waters, a remarkable alliance once existed between humans and one of the ocean’s most formidable predators. The killer whales of Eden, New South Wales, were not just fearsome hunters but also unexpected allies to the whaling communities of the 19th and early 20th centuries. This extraordinary partnership, known as “the law of the tongue,” saw orcas working alongside human whalers to hunt baleen whales, a practice that lasted from 1840 to 1930.

The story of Eden’s killer whales is deeply rooted in Aboriginal culture. The local Yuin people regarded these magnificent creatures as their totem animal and believed them to be reincarnations of their ancestors. Yuin elder Guboo Ted Thomas recounted tales of his grandfather riding on the backs of killer whales, highlighting the profound spiritual connection between the indigenous people and these marine mammals.

Among the pod of killer whales that frequented Twofold Bay, one individual stood out – Old Tom. With his distinctive tall dorsal fin, Old Tom became a legend in his own right. He would alert the Davidson family whalers to the presence of baleen whales by breaching or tail-slapping at the mouth of the Kiah River. In return for their assistance, the killer whales were rewarded with the tongues and lips of the captured whales, a practice that gave rise to the term “law of the tongue.”

This unique collaboration between humans and orcas was not just a local phenomenon but garnered attention far and wide. It was documented by whaling overseer Sir Oswald Brierly in the 1840s and even captured on film in 1910 by C.B. Jenkins and C.E. Wellings. The story of the Eden killer whales has since become an integral part of Australian maritime history, commemorated in museums and retold in books and documentaries.

Today, the legacy of Old Tom and his pod lives on, not just in the annals of history but in the collective memory of a nation. It serves as a testament to the complex and often surprising relationships that can form between humans and the natural world. As we reflect on this extraordinary chapter of interspecies cooperation, we are reminded of the intelligence, adaptability, and majesty of the killer whale – qualities that continue to captivate us to this day.

It is in this spirit of reverence for these magnificent creatures and the rich tapestry of Australia’s maritime history that the Perth Mint presents the 2022 2 oz Australia Killer Whale Silver Coin. This exquisite piece not only pays homage to the killer whale but also encapsulates a fascinating slice of Australian cultural heritage.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, a design by renowned artist Jody Clark. This portrait, the sixth to grace Australian coinage, is a testament to the coin’s status as legal tender and its connection to the Commonwealth. Surrounding the Queen’s likeness are inscriptions detailing the coin’s year of issue, weight, purity, and face value, all presented in a crisp, modern typeface that complements the classical portrait.

On the reverse, the coin truly comes to life with a dynamic depiction of two killer whales. The larger orca, possibly representing Old Tom or one of his pod mates, is shown in mid-breach, its powerful body arcing gracefully out of stylized waves. Alongside, a smaller whale – perhaps a calf – swims close by, embodying the strong family bonds for which these creatures are known. The artistry captures not just the physical form of the killer whales but also their spirit – the intelligence in their eyes, the strength in their flukes, and the sleekness of their black and white coloration.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 2 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: The Perth Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Perth
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II
• Reverse: Two killer whales breaching from stylized waves

Investment Appeal

The 2022 2 oz Australia Killer Whale Silver Coin represents an exceptional opportunity for both collectors and investors. Its high purity of .999 fine silver ensures that it holds intrinsic value beyond its numismatic appeal. The coin’s weight of 2 ounces provides a substantial amount of precious metal, making it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their investment portfolio with tangible assets.

As a product of the internationally renowned Perth Mint, this coin carries with it a guarantee of quality and authenticity that is recognized worldwide. The brilliant uncirculated grade ensures that each detail of the intricate design is preserved in its original mint state, appealing to collectors who value pristine condition.

Moreover, the coin’s theme taps into a rich vein of Australian cultural heritage, potentially increasing its appeal and value over time. The story of the Eden killer whales is a unique chapter in maritime history, and owning this coin allows investors to hold a piece of that fascinating narrative.

Its IRA eligibility adds another layer of investment potential, offering a tax-advantaged way to include precious metals in retirement planning. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist, a silver investor, or someone looking to start a collection with historical significance, the 2022 2 oz Australia Killer Whale Silver Coin offers a compelling blend of artistry, cultural relevance, and investment potential.