Australia’s largest bird of prey, the majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle, is known to soar through the sky for hours on end, frequently reaching altitudes of up to 2,000 metres. In the heat of the day, the eagle makes use of hot thermal air currents that drift up from the ground to reach these dizzying heights, whilst expending little energy.

The Perth Mint commissioned American sculptor and engraver, John M Mercanti, the 12th Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, to create the Australian Wedge-Tailed Eagle design.

Each coin’s reverse depicts an impressive Wedge-tailed Eagle in mid-flight as it prepares to land on a tree branch. The design also includes the inscription AUSTRALIAN WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE, the 2015 year-date and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.