Perth Mint

Perth Mint

Perth Mint is the government mint of Western Australia, established in 1899 and renowned for refining and minting investment-grade gold, silver and platinum. The mint operates an LBMA-accredited refinery and issues legal tender bullion and numismatic coins under the Australian Currency Act, which supports global recognition and liquidity for investors and collectors in the U.S. market.

Today’s Perth Mint lineup includes the Australian Kangaroo bullion series in gold, silver and platinum, the Lunar Series III based on the Chinese lunar calendar, and long-running silver favorites such as the Kookaburra and Koala. The mint also releases specialty programs like the Wedge-tailed Eagle, Swan and Dragon-themed rectangular bullion, along with a wide range of limited mintage proofs and collectibles. Bullion bars are offered as minted bars in sealed, tamper-evident packaging and as cast bars in popular sizes that often include individual serial numbers on larger weights.

Perth Mint prioritizes purity and finish across its products, with most gold and silver bullion struck to .9999 fineness and platinum to .9995. Many coins feature annually changing reverse designs, while the 1 oz Silver Kangaroo carries a micro-engraved authentication feature to aid in counterfeit deterrence. Coins typically arrive in protective capsules or tubes depending on the series, and bars ship in sealed packaging that helps maintain condition and trust in secondary markets.

Beyond bullion, Perth Mint offers numismatic editions with limited mintages, special finishes and designer collaborations, which appeal to collectors seeking artistry and scarcity. The mint also operates a depository program for allocated and unallocated storage, allowing customers to hold metal directly with the mint, subject to its terms and fees. As with any physical bullion purchase, it is prudent to compare dealer pricing and premiums to find the best value before buying.

Perth Mint Highlights

• Founded in 1899 and wholly owned by the Government of Western Australia
• LBMA Good Delivery accredited refinery for gold and silver and ISO-certified quality systems
• Legal tender bullion coins backed by Australia with .9999 gold and silver and .9995 platinum
• Flagship series: Australian Kangaroo, Lunar Series III, Kookaburra, Koala, Wedge-tailed Eagle and Swan
• Minted bars in tamper-evident packaging and cast bars with common weights from 1 oz to 1 kg
• Security features include micro-engraved authentication on the Silver Kangaroo and specialized packaging
• Annual design changes on many series support collector interest and product differentiation
• Depository storage options available from the mint for allocated and unallocated metals
• Broad U.S. market acceptance and distribution that supports liquidity for investors

FAQ

• What precious metals does Perth Mint produce?

  Perth Mint refines and mints gold, silver and platinum, offering bullion coins, bars and collector issues.

• Are Perth Mint bullion coins legal tender?

  Yes. Perth Mint bullion coins are legal tender of Australia under the Australian Currency Act, which supports global recognition. In practice, they trade based on precious metal content and market price.

• What are the most popular Perth Mint coin series for investors?

  Common choices include the Australian Kangaroo in gold, silver and platinum, along with the Kookaburra and Koala silver coins. The Lunar Series III is also widely followed by both investors and collectors.

• How do minted bars differ from cast bars from Perth Mint?

  Minted bars have a precision, pressed finish and come sealed in tamper-evident packaging. Cast bars are poured, have a more traditional appearance and larger sizes often include unique serial numbers.

• What security features should I look for?

  Perth Mint uses micro-engraved authentication on the 1 oz Silver Kangaroo and tamper-evident packaging for minted bars. Always check weight and dimensions, inspect details under magnification and purchase from reputable sources.

• What purities does Perth Mint use?

  Most bullion coins and bars are struck in .9999 fine gold and silver, with platinum bullion typically .9995 fine. Product specifications are published for each item.

• How are Perth Mint coins packaged?

  Packaging varies by series. Many collector coins ship in individual capsules, while some bullion coins are supplied in tubes or trays for bulk quantities. Bars arrive sealed or shrink-wrapped depending on type.

• Does Perth Mint offer storage?

  Yes. The Perth Mint Depository provides allocated and unallocated storage options. Evaluate fees, terms and counterparty considerations before enrolling.

• Are Perth Mint products eligible for U.S. precious metals IRAs?

  Many Perth Mint bullion coins and bars meet IRS fineness and legal tender criteria. Confirm eligibility with your IRA custodian before purchase.

• How can I find competitive prices on Perth Mint bullion?

  Compare premiums and shipping across multiple dealers and marketplaces. Checking live pricing before you buy can help identify the lowest total cost.