This 200 Dollar gold proof coin was released in 2005 by the Royal Australian
Mint and was the second instalment in a series of three, commemorating Australian rare birds. The set was intended
to raise awareness for the rare birds and the importance of the preservation of Australian wildlife as well as make a stunning
addition to any collection. The three coins were released progressively, one every year between the years of 2004 and 2006.
This coin pays tribute to the Malleefowl, a shy, solitary bird native to Western Australia. The Rare Bird Series also included
coins featuring the Cassowary and the South-eastern Red Tailed Black Cockatoo. Each of the coins were struck into gold and
have a limited mintage of just 2500. As well as this series of $200 the same three birds and designs were also incorporated
into a $150 series of the same name.
The reverse of this coin was designed by Royal Australian Mint designer and sculptor Wojciech Pietranik. If bears the profile of the
hardworking Malleefowl bird amongst its natural habitat of the Australian bush. The only
legend
on the reverse of the coin is the 200 DOLLARS. The
obverse of the coin features the Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and surrounding the
image is the legend ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 2004. The coin was issued in a beautiful wooden presentation case the outside
of which bears the text Australian Government Royal Australian Mint
. This was packaged in an outer box creatively designed featuring foliage from the bush and a picture of the coin. The text
on the box reads $200 Gold
Proof
Coin Rare Birds - Malleefowl. Also included in the box is a Certificate of Authenticity and a booklet containing information
pertaining to the rare birds featured in this
commemorative
set.
The Malleefowl is distantly related to the chicken and is a similar size. They are generally found in areas of scrub and
in the bush of Western Australia. They are shy birds that generally live in solitary and very rarely fly. They constantly
rummage but are able to freeze completely when threatened and their patterned plumage makes them very hard to see.
(Wikipedia, 2013)
They will only fly when chased and flying is necessary. Even during mating they will roost and feed separately and the
male is responsible for constructing large nesting mounds. There conservation status varies across different states for example
in Victoria it is listed as endangered, in South Australia as vulnerable and in New South Wales as endangered. The Malleefowl
was once found in plentiful numbers across Australia but due to climate change, disruptions to their habitat and the introduction
of the red fox, their numbers are now dwindling.
Find out what dealers are paying with a subscription.
