29.09.26
Perth Mint Coins: History, Quality & Collector Trust
Since 1899, the Perth Mint has turned Western Australian gold into coins. Today, its Kangaroo, Kookaburra, Koala and Lunar coins are among the most recognised in the world. Here is how the mint earned its reputation, and how to build a Perth Mint collection you can feel confident about.
Key takeaways
- The Perth Mint opened on 20 June 1899 as a branch of Britain's Royal Mint and is Australia's oldest operating mint.
- It has been owned by the Government of Western Australia since 1970 and has operated through Gold Corporation since 1987.
- Its best-known series include the Australian Kangaroo (originally the Nugget), Kookaburra, Koala and Lunar coins.
- Collectors value its consistent specifications, fine detail, published mintages and worldwide recognition.
A short history of the Perth Mint
1896
Premier Sir John Forrest lays the foundation stone of the mint building, designed by architect George Temple Poole.
1899
The mint opens as the last of three colonial branches of the Royal Mint, refining gold from the Western Australian gold rushes. By 1931 it has struck more than 106 million gold sovereigns.
1940s–1960s
The mint produces hundreds of millions of Australian pennies and halfpennies, and later helps supply the new 1c and 2c coins when Australia switches to decimal currency in 1966.
1970
Ownership passes from the United Kingdom to the Government of Western Australia on 1 July.
1987
Gold Corporation is established and the Australian Nugget gold coin is launched. First-day sales reach 155,000 ounces.
1990
A new refinery opens near Perth Airport, and the Australian Kookaburra silver coin is introduced.
1996
The Australian Lunar Series begins, launching one of the most popular zodiac coin programs in the world.
2012
Guinness World Records recognises the mint's one-tonne Australian Kangaroo gold coin, containing 1,012 kg of 99.99% gold, as the largest coin ever made.
2024
The Perth Mint celebrates its 125th anniversary.
Signature series collectors know
Australian Kangaroo
Launched in 1987 as the Australian Nugget, this gold bullion coin later adopted the kangaroo design that gives it its popular name.
Australian Kookaburra
A silver favourite since 1990, with a new kookaburra design every year. That makes it ideal for date-run collecting.
Australian Koala
Features one of Australia's best-loved animals in a fresh design each year, issued in precious metals including platinum and silver.
Australian Lunar
Celebrates the animals of the Chinese zodiac. Completing a full 12-year cycle is a popular long-term goal, especially among collectors in Asia.
What makes Perth Mint quality stand out
Refining heritage
The mint runs its own refinery, which processes a large share of Australia's newly mined gold. It controls its metal from refining to finished coin.
Published specifications
Every release comes with a stated weight, purity and diameter, so buyers know exactly what they should receive.
Government ownership
Gold Corporation, which operates the Perth Mint, is owned by the Government of Western Australia, and its obligations are backed by a state government guarantee.
Craftsmanship
Beyond bullion, the mint is known for proof finishes, high-relief strikes, and coloured and gilded designs with very fine detail.
Why collectors trust Perth Mint coins
- ✔Consistency: decades of releases struck to the same exacting standards.
- ✔Clear mintages: collector coins are sold with stated mintage limits, so you know how scarce a coin is meant to be.
- ✔Global recognition: dealers worldwide know these coins, which makes them easier to sell later.
- ✔Documentation: proof and collector releases come with presentation cases and certificates of authenticity.
- ✔Grading support: major services such as PCGS and NGC grade Perth Mint coins extensively.
How to build a Perth Mint collection
Choose your focus
Choose between bullion coins for metal value, a series such as a full Lunar cycle, or limited-mintage proofs for their artistry.
Understand the finish
Bullion, proof, high relief, coloured and gilded versions of the same design can differ greatly in mintage and price.
Keep the packaging
For collector coins, the original case and certificate are part of the value.
Verify what you buy
Popular coins attract counterfeiters. Check weight and diameter against the mint's specifications, buy from reputable sellers, and verify certification numbers on graded coins.
Store them properly
Keep coins in their capsules, somewhere cool and dry, and avoid touching proof surfaces. Silver can develop white "milk spots" over time, and careful storage helps protect eye appeal.
Collector tip: Lunar coins are especially popular across Asia. If you plan to complete a 12-year cycle, pick one size and finish and stick with it, because a matching set is more desirable than a mixed one.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Perth Mint government owned?
Yes. It is owned by the Government of Western Australia and operated by Gold Corporation.
Are Perth Mint coins legal tender?
Yes. Its coins are issued as Australian legal tender, although their metal and collector value is usually far higher than their face value.
What is the difference between bullion and proof coins?
Bullion coins are made in large numbers and priced close to their metal value. Proof coins are struck with specially polished dies in limited numbers, and their price reflects craftsmanship and scarcity.
Where is the Perth Mint?
In East Perth, Western Australia. Its original heritage building is still in use today and is open to visitors.
Shop Perth Mint coins
Explore Perth Mint bullion and collector coins at Asia Mint Collections.
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