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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56661
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 07/16/25 02:40:01 | ||
Gold
-0.64
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$3,324.18 | $3,337.20 |
The Australia $200 Two Ounce Gold Koala 2008 PF70 NGC is a standout example of modern Australian numismatics, combining high gold content, limited mintage, and exceptional craftsmanship into a coin that holds considerable appeal for both collectors and investors. Issued by the Perth Mint, one of the most respected mints in the world, this coin is part of the Australian Koala series which began in 2007. The koala, an iconic marsupial endemic to Australia, serves not only as a beloved national symbol but also as a subject that appeals strongly to the international collector base. Struck in two full troy ounces of .9999 fine gold and awarded the perfect PF70 Ultra Cameo grade by NGC, this coin reflects the very highest standards in both precious metal purity and visual presentation.
The Perth Mint launched the Koala series in 2007 as a follow-up to the wildly successful Kangaroo and Kookaburra bullion programs. While those series primarily targeted the bullion market, the Koala series was crafted with collectors in mind, especially the proof issues such as the 2008 two-ounce coin. These proof coins are struck using highly polished dies and planchets to achieve a brilliant mirror finish with frosted devices, creating strong contrast and enhancing detail. The 2008 issue marks the second year of the Koala series and features a new and unique reverse design, as is tradition with Perth Mint animal-themed coins. Each annual issue showcases a different depiction of the koala, making the series both dynamic and highly collectible.
The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This portrait was introduced in 1998 and remained in use on Australian coinage for many years. It depicts the Queen in right-facing profile, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara, a favorite among her formal regalia. Around the portrait are the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “AUSTRALIA,” and the face value “200 DOLLARS.” The clean and symmetrical design of the obverse provides a dignified complement to the detailed and more playful reverse. As with all Australian legal tender coins, the obverse not only authenticates the coin’s origin and denomination but also ties it into the Commonwealth realm.
The reverse design of the 2008 two-ounce gold proof Koala coin features an adorable koala nestled in the crook of a eucalyptus tree. Rendered in stunning detail, the marsupial appears at rest, its fur texture and natural features brought to life by the frosted finish. The surrounding leaves and bark of the tree are also finely engraved, providing a naturalistic setting for the central figure. Above the koala is the word “KOALA,” and below are the inscriptions “2008,” “2 OZ,” “9999 GOLD,” clearly identifying the coin’s issue year, weight, and purity. The Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark appears subtly to the side, a quiet assurance of the coin’s authenticity and production quality.
The coin was struck by the Perth Mint in extremely limited quantities, with the two-ounce proof gold version having one of the smallest mintages in the Koala series. Only 2,000 of these coins were issued, making them especially desirable among collectors who pursue low-mintage modern gold. Proof versions, unlike their bullion counterparts, are made in much smaller numbers and are struck multiple times to achieve the highest level of detail and mirror-like field quality. These factors contribute to the coin's premium status, and examples that earn a perfect grade like PF70 from NGC become even more coveted due to their flawless preservation and eye appeal.
The PF70 Ultra Cameo designation by NGC signifies a coin that is flawless under 5x magnification, with no visible post-production imperfections and exceptionally strong contrast between the frosted design elements and the mirrored background. This pristine condition ensures that the coin exhibits its full artistic intent and makes it an ideal candidate for display or inclusion in a high-grade numismatic set. The Ultra Cameo contrast, in particular, is highly prized on modern proof coins and speaks to the meticulous craftsmanship of the Perth Mint. The encapsulation by NGC also serves to protect the coin from environmental damage while providing a secure certification of its authenticity and grade.
The two-ounce format adds considerable heft and visual impact to the coin, setting it apart from more common one-ounce or fractional issues. With a diameter of approximately 40.6 mm and a substantial thickness, the coin feels weighty in hand and offers an expansive canvas for the intricate koala design. The .9999 fineness of the gold ensures a high level of purity, making the coin attractive not just to numismatists but also to precious metals investors who appreciate high-quality bullion in collectible form. The combination of size, purity, and rarity gives this coin a multidimensional appeal that bridges the gap between bullion and numismatic investment.
The Koala series overall has been a success both domestically and abroad, with collectors drawn to its rotating designs, high production standards, and the international popularity of the koala itself. The 2008 issue, being only the second in the series and struck in the substantial two-ounce proof format, carries additional appeal as an early issue. As the series has matured and expanded into multiple formats and metals—including silver, platinum, and different fractional and jumbo gold weights—earlier and lower-mintage issues have begun to receive renewed attention from both seasoned collectors and newer entrants seeking foundational pieces in the Koala series.
The coin’s presentation and packaging also enhance its appeal. Originally issued in a classic Perth Mint black presentation case with a certificate of authenticity, the two-ounce Koala was positioned as a premium product from the start. Collectors who obtain examples with original packaging and COA in addition to top-graded certification like PF70 NGC find themselves in possession of a complete and highly desirable numismatic package. While packaging is not always retained, it adds historical and resale value for those who plan to eventually trade or pass down their collection.
In the broader context of Australian coinage, the 2008 $200 Koala coin reflects the Perth Mint’s ability to blend tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship. It stands as a testament to Australia’s leadership in modern bullion and collector coin programs, joining the ranks of the Kangaroo, Kookaburra, and Lunar series as examples of international excellence. With a globally recognized subject, high gold content, perfect proof finish, and extremely limited mintage, this coin represents the finest characteristics of what collectors seek in modern numismatics.
The Australia $200 Two Ounce Gold Koala 2008 PF70 NGC is more than a coin—it is a piece of fine art in precious metal, encapsulating the essence of a nation’s wildlife and the technical prowess of its minting tradition. Its impeccable grade, appealing design, and low population among collectors make it a rare treasure in the world of proof gold coinage. Whether as a centerpiece of an Australian-themed collection, a standout in a gold investment portfolio, or a prized display item, this coin remains an enduring symbol of beauty, rarity, and numismatic excellence.