The rainbow lorikeet is a colorful bird that has recently become the latest star on a silver coin. This coin is part of a series that celebrates Australia’s beautiful birds. In this article, we’ll explore the details of this exciting new coin, its background, and the significance of the rainbow lorikeet.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Rainbow Lorikeet Silver Coin |
| Country of Issue | Niue |
| Series | Birds of Australia |
| Subject | Rainbow Lorikeet |
| Designers | John and Elizabeth Gould |
| Metal Composition | .999 Fine Silver |
| Weight | 31.135 grams (1 ounce) |
| Diameter | 40 millimeters |
| Mintage Limit | 750 pieces |
| Price | $119.95 (discounts for larger orders available) |
| Release Date | June 22, 2024 |
| Obverse Design | Jody Clark effigy of King Charles III |
| Reverse Design | Illustration of a rainbow lorikeet couple |
| Presentation | Clamshell-style case with black velvet and satin lining |
| Certificate | Individually numbered certificate of authenticity |
Introduction to the Rainbow Lorikeet Coin
The rainbow lorikeet is the fourth bird featured in the Proof silver $1 Birds of Australia series. This coin is special because it showcases the stunning artwork of John and Elizabeth Gould, who were famous for their detailed illustrations of birds. The coin, which weighs 1 ounce and is made of .999 fine silver, highlights the vibrant colors of the rainbow lorikeet. In the previous releases of this series, collectors admired coins that honored the black swan, Major Mitchell’s cockatoo, and the Eastern rosella parrot, all of which sold out quickly.
The Rainbow Lorikeet: A Colorful Bird
1. What is a Rainbow Lorikeet?
The rainbow lorikeet is one of Australia’s most colorful birds. It is similar to a parakeet, but it is a type of small parrot. These birds are known for their bright feathers, which can include shades of blue, green, yellow, and orange. The reverse side of the new coin features an illustration of a couple of rainbow lorikeets, displaying their colorful plumage.
2. Where Can You Find Them?
Rainbow lorikeets are native to eastern Australia. They have also been introduced to other places, including Western Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand. These birds are often seen in pairs, but they can also gather in larger groups. Their social nature makes them fun to watch, as they interact with each other and their environment.
3. Behavior and Lifestyle
Rainbow lorikeets are active and noisy birds. They are known for their playful behavior and love to fly around in pairs or small flocks. They are often seen feeding on nectar from flowers and can be quite vocal, making them popular among birdwatchers.
Details of the Coin
1. Design of the Coin
The design of the new rainbow lorikeet coin is based on the artwork of John and Elizabeth Gould. Their work, The Birds of Australia, is famous for its detailed illustrations and is considered a significant contribution to ornithology. The coin’s reverse shows the vibrant colors of the lorikeet, enhanced using digital color technology.
2. Specifications
- Weight: 31.135 grams (1 ounce)
- Diameter: 40 millimeters
- Metal: .999 fine silver
- Mintage Limit: 750 pieces
- Price: $119.95 (discounts available for larger orders)
3. Presentation
The coin comes in a special presentation case. It is encapsulated inside a clamshell-style case that is lined with black velvet and satin. This protects the coin and makes it an attractive display piece. Additionally, each coin comes with a numbered certificate of authenticity.
How to Purchase the Coin
If you are interested in adding this beautiful coin to your collection, you can find more information or place an order at the distributor’s website
Conclusion
The rainbow lorikeet silver coin is a wonderful tribute to one of Australia’s most colorful and lively birds. It celebrates the beauty of nature and the artistry of John and Elizabeth Gould. With a limited mintage of only 750 pieces, this coin is not just a collectible but also a piece of art that highlights the stunning colors of the rainbow lorikeet. Whether you are a bird lover or a coin collector, this new release is sure to be a treasured addition to any collection.
FAQs
1. What is the rainbow lorikeet?
The rainbow lorikeet is a small, colorful parrot native to eastern Australia. It is known for its vibrant feathers, including blue, green, yellow, and orange colors.
2. Why is the rainbow lorikeet featured on this coin?
The rainbow lorikeet is celebrated for its beauty and playful nature. The coin honors this Australian bird as part of the Birds of Australia series, which showcases the artwork of famous ornithologists John and Elizabeth Gould.
3. What is the significance of the coin’s design?
The coin features an illustration by John and Elizabeth Gould, who created detailed depictions of Australian birds in their work, The Birds of Australia. This coin highlights the beauty of the rainbow lorikeet through advanced digital color technology.
4. How many coins are available for purchase?
There is a limited mintage of only 750 pieces for the rainbow lorikeet silver coin, making it a rare collectible.
5. What are the specifications of the coin?
The coin weighs 31.135 grams, has a diameter of 40 millimeters, and is made of .999 fine silver.