Perth Mint – history of the mint

Perth Mint was established in the late 19th century as a subsidiary of the British Royal Mint. Australia already had a mint in Sydney and Melbourne (both are no longer in operation and serve as a museum), but due to the gold deposits discovered in Western Australia, it was decided to open a mint locally, in Perth.

For several decades Perth Mint remained under the management of the British authorities, and it wasn’t until 1970 that the government of Western Australia became the official owner of the mint. Perth Mint was known for its exceptional purity of refined gold, thus setting the standard for other mints. In 2011, Perth Mint produced the largest, heaviest and most valuable pure gold coin.

Perth Mint today

Perth Mint produces most of Australia’s circulating coins. It is responsible for refining nearly 80% of the gold in the Australasian market and about 30% of the silver. The gold, silver and platinum bars are available in cast and stamped versions, and each product comes with an LBMA certificate and a unique serial number confirming authenticity and bullion purity.

The bars are available in weights:

• 1 kg,
• 10 oz,
• 5 oz,
• 2.5 oz,
• 1 oz,
• 1/2 ounce.

Collector coins minted at Perth Mint are also sought after by investors. Currently available series include:

• Australian Kangaroo,
• Australian Koala,
• Harry Potter™,
• Pink Panther™ 60th Anniversary,
• Mythical Creatures,
• Australian Wedge,
• Australian Lunar,
• Chinese New Year.

Commemorative coins, such as those marking King Charles III’s 75th birthday, complete the collection. There are also sovereigns and half sovereigns, made of 22K gold with a purity of 91.6%.