The 2011 Air Series is The Royal Australian Mint's third series dedicated to native Australian fauna, following the popular
Ocean (2006-7) and Land Series (2008-9). The Air Series encompasses six, uncirculated coins, each depicting different winged
fauna on the reverse: a Crimson Rosella, Kookaburra, Major Mitchell Cockatoo,
Sacred Kingfisher, Cairns Birdwing Butterfly, and Grey-Headed Flying Fox.
(Royal Australian Mint, 2011)
The series was periodically released in pairs throughout the year in specially designed cards. The Kookaburra was the
first release in March, along with the Crimson Rosella.
(Royal Australian Mint, 2011)
The Kookaburra is perhaps the most iconic Australian bird, easily identifiable by its distinctive laughing bird call.
Although members of the Kingfisher family, they are more commonly found hunting insects, small rodents, and reptiles.
Using a colour/pad printing process, the Mint perfectly captures the characteristic, bright colours of this species. The
reverse was created by first striking the coin with a very detailed relief
then applying coloured ink to further enhance the design.
(Royal Australian Mint, 2008)
The result is eye-catching with precise, vivid details and intense colour, paying artistic homage to this stunning species.
The obverse features Ian Rank-Broadley's image of Queen Elizabeth II.
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