5 Dollars - Elizabeth II 3rd Portrait - Grey Kangaroo - Gold Bullion Coin
| Issuer | Australia |
|---|---|
| Year | 1990-1991 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 5 Dollars |
| Currency | Dollar (1966-date) |
| Composition | Gold (.9999) |
| Weight | 1.55 g |
| Diameter | 14.1 mm |
| Thickness | 1.4 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#140 |
| Obverse description | 3rd portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right wearing the King George IV State Diadem |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 5 DOLLARS RDM |
| Reverse description | Grey Kangaroo standing facing right, turning head to look left |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | THE AUSTRALIAN NUGGET 1/20 OZ. 9999 GOLD GREY KANGAROO 1990 |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1990 - Proof - 6 589 1990 - Proof - In 3 Coin Set - 1 119 1990 - Proof - In 5 Coin Set - 2 248 1991 - BU - 112 965 |
| Numisquare ID | 1207234780 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: Issued by Australia in 1990-1991, this 5 Dollar gold bullion coin features the third effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Raphael Maklouf, which graced Commonwealth coinage from 1985 to 1997. This era marked a significant expansion of the Perth Mint's "Australian Kangaroo" bullion program, establishing Australia as a prominent global supplier of investment-grade gold. These annual releases, showcasing diverse kangaroo designs, were crucial in meeting international demand for high-purity gold.
Artistry: The obverse bears Maklouf's elegant third portrait of Her Majesty, depicting her facing right, adorned with the George IV State Diadem. This effigy is celebrated for its naturalistic, regal presentation. The reverse features a detailed, naturalistic depiction of a Grey Kangaroo, a recurring motif in the series. While specific reverse engravers are often uncredited, the stylistic school is consistently representational, aiming for an accurate, lifelike portrayal of Australia's iconic marsupial.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .9999 fine gold, this coin typically exhibits an exceptional strike, a hallmark of Perth Mint bullion issues. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of the Queen's hair and the diadem's jewels on the obverse. On the reverse, critical areas are the musculature and texture of the kangaroo's fur, particularly on its hind legs and head. Expect sharp definition throughout, with clean fields reflecting high-quality modern minting techniques for these investment-grade pieces.