2015 Australian Opal Python Silver Coin Seventh in Series

The seventh release in an eight-coin program is now available with the 2015 Australian Opal Rough-Scaled Python Silver Proof Coin launching on Jan. 6.

This silver coin’s reverse incorporates an inner panel design of a Rough-Scaled Python detailed in pure Australian opal. Mintage for the Perth Mint-struck coin is set at 8,000.

"The Rough-Scaled Python is a dark brown reptile with pale brown blotches, a triangular head and a thin body," describes the Perth Mint. "Their scales have ridges along the middle giving them a rough, sandpaper-like feel. The non-venomous python kills its prey by constriction."

Six coins have appeared before in the Australian Opal series, including:

• 2012 Opal Koala Silver Coin – released in February of 2012
• 2012 Opal Wombat Silver Coin – released in August of 2012
• 2013 Opal Kangaroo Silver Coin – released in March of 2013
• 2013 Opal Pygmy Possum Silver Coin – released in September of 2013
• 2014 Opal Tasmanian Devil Silver Coin – released in February of 2014
• 2014 Opal Masked Owl Silver Coin – released in September of 2014

So far, the three earliest issues have sold out. The eighth and final release will depict a Ghost Bat. It will be issued later in 2015.

Designs and Specifications for Rough-Scaled Python Silver Coin

Each Australian Opal silver coin is produced from one ounce of 99.9% pure silver to proof quality. Coins feature a minimum gross weight of 31.135 grams with a maximum diameter of 36.60 mm and a maximum thickness of 4.50 mm.

Designed by Perth Mint artist Aleysha Howarth, the reverse has the inner panel featuring the Rough-Scaled Python. A collection of fern fronds surrounds the opal along with inscriptions of ROUGH-SCALED PYTHON, 2015 1 oz 999 SILVER and the Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mint mark. Struck as legal tender of Australia, obverses showcase an Ian-Rank Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. Obverse inscriptions include ELIZABETH II, AUSTRALIA and the face value of 1 DOLLAR.

Ordering and Pricing

Orders for the 2015 Rough-Scaled Python Silver Coin may be placed directly with the Perth Mint of Australia at www.perthmint.com.au. Current pricing is AUS $104.55, or US $85.

Ad Banner to The Perth Mint Website for New Silver Coins

Included with each purchase is a Perth Mint display case with a light, which turns on as you open the lid to represent the moon shining down on the nocturnal creature. The light turns on as the case is opened to represent the moon shining down on the python.