8 Dollars - Charles III 1st Portrait - Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle - Silver Proof High Relief
| Issuer | Australia |
|---|---|
| Year | 2024 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 8 Dollars |
| Currency | Dollar (1966-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.9999) |
| Weight | 155.533 g |
| Diameter | 50.9 mm |
| Thickness | 11.85 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled (high relief) |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#4749 |
| Obverse description | Uncrowned portrait of King Charles III facing left below a privy mark depicting a wedge-tailed eagle about to land on the branch of a dead tree. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | · CHARLES III AUSTRALIA · 8 DOLLARS DT |
| Reverse description | Australian Wedged-Tail Eagle facing right with wings outstretched in the coin center with radiating triangular shapes in the background. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 10TH ANNIVERSARY P125 AUSTRALIAN WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE 2024 5oz 9999 SILVER JM |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
P125 Perth Mint, Australia(1899-date) |
| Mintage |
2024 P125 - Proof - |
| Numisquare ID | 1772319850 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This 2024 Australian 8 Dollar coin is a pivotal issue, featuring the inaugural effigy of His Majesty King Charles III. Following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing in 2022, the transition to a new monarch necessitated a global redesign of Commonwealth coinage. This piece represents the dawn of a new Carolean era for Australia, a key Commonwealth realm, and marks the first appearance of Charles III on Australian legal tender, making it a significant historical artifact.
Artistry: The obverse design features the first definitive coinage portrait of King Charles III by Martin Jennings, adopted by the Royal Mint. Its naturalistic style reflects a modern approach to regal effigies. The reverse, designed by renowned American sculptor John M. Mercanti, showcases his iconic rendition of the Australian Wedge-tailed Eagle. Mercanti's work is characterized by dynamic realism, capturing the eagle's powerful presence and intricate feather detail, a hallmark of contemporary wildlife numismatic art.
Technical/Grading: Struck as a high relief silver proof, this coin (KM#4749) boasts exceptional technical qualities. The .9999 fine silver composition (155.533 gg, 50.9 mm) ensures a brilliant canvas. High-points for grading include the precise definition of King Charles III's hair and ear on the obverse, and on the reverse, the intricate feathering of the eagle's wings, talons, and beak. The high relief strike provides a striking three-dimensional effect, complemented by mirror-like fields and frosted devices of its proof finish.