Abalone is a single-shelled mollusc or marine snail which feeds on algae while suctioned to reef or rock by its muscular body.
The outer shell of the abalone has a low and open spiral structure which protects its body. It is dull in colour and rough in texture, and is formed in a convex shape.
In contrast, the smooth inner shell is composed of nacre or mother-of-pearl which displays an iridescent mix of colours, ranging from deep cobalt blue and peacock green, to purples, creams and pinks.
Abalone can also produce pearls, which are considered by many to be the most beautiful and rarest in the world.
In addition to being adored for their stunning inner shells and pearls, the flesh of the abalone is considered to be a culinary delicacy in many countries, consumed raw or cooked in a variety of dishes.
The 2014 Australian Abalone Shell coin is struck by The Perth Mint from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver and issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965. No more than 5,000 of these 2014 Australian Abalone Shell 1oz Silver Proof Coins will be released by The Perth Mint.
The reverse of the coin features a sculpted representation of an abalone shell with a polished fragment of real abalone shell as the centrepiece, against a rippled pattern representing the ocean floor. The inscription AUSTRALIAN ABALONE SHELL and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark also appear in the design. The Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the monetary denomination, the coin’s weight and fineness, and the 2014 year-date are shown on the coin’s obverse
Each coin is housed in a classic display case within an illustrated shipper and accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
Mint | The Perth Mint |
---|---|
Year | 2018 |
Denomination | $1 |
Metal Type | Silver |
Weight (g) | 28.349 |
Purity (%) | 99.9 |
Diameter (mm) | 40.00 |
Mintage | 10,000 |