2013 Bush Baby Echidna Silver Coin Released

Presented by The Perth Mint of Australia as the third of five releases under the Australian Bush Babies II series is the 2013 Bush Baby Echidna Silver Coin.

This coin is composed of 1/2 ounce of 99.9% pure silver and is limited to a mintage of 10,000.

"The third release in the cute Australian Bush Babies II series depicts an adorable baby echidna," notes Makeila Ellis of the Perth Mint. "The echidna is native to Australia, and is recognized by its spiky coat and rambling walk. This endearing mammal is sure to melt your heart."

The echidna is easily identified by its lengthy snout which serves as both a mouth and a nose. It uses its long sticky tongue to collect insects as its food. This creature also features strong limbs with large claws which prove beneficial for digging. It is further identified as one of only four species of mammals that lay eggs.

Preceding the Bush Baby Echidna Silver Coin from the Australian Bush Babies II series was the Possum Silver Coin released in October and the debuting Kookaburra Silver Coin launched in July. The two upcoming silver coins depict a baby platypus and a baby wombat.

Bush Baby Echidna Silver Coin Designs and Specifications

Offered on the reverse of these silver coins is a colored image of a baby echidna. The brown-hued creature is to the left of the design with frosted representations of Australia bush flowers to the right. Surrounding the image are inscription of "Australian Echidna" with the Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mint mark. This design is the work of Elise Martinson.

Shown on the obverse is the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. Obverse inscriptions include "ELIZABETH II," "AUSTRALIA," "2013" "1/2 oz 999 SILVER" and "50 CENTS."

Silver coins in the Australian Bush Babies II series each have a diameter of 36.60 mm, a thickness of 2.30 mm and a weight of 15.591 grams.

The Perth Mint offers them in a presentation case along with a numbered certificate of authenticity. An illustrated shipper is also included.

Pricing is AUS $61.36, or US $64.31, but that is subject to change based on silver market conditions. Those wishing to order the Bush Baby Echidna Silver Coin or other Perth Mint silver coins can visit at www.perthmint.com.au. An affiliate link to it follows:

Ad Banner to Perth Mint Website for New Coin Releases