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The Australia $5 Gold 1/20th Ounce Kangaroo 2009 MS70 NGC is a diminutive yet dazzling example of one of the world’s most popular and enduring gold bullion series. Struck from 1/20 troy ounce of .9999 fine gold by the Perth Mint, this coin is part of the acclaimed Gold Kangaroo program that has captivated collectors and investors alike since its debut in 1986. Graded a flawless Mint State 70 by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), the coin represents the highest possible grade and confirms that it is free from any post-production imperfections visible under 5x magnification. Its combination of exquisite design, pristine condition, and limited mintage makes it a compelling piece for both seasoned numismatists and entry-level gold buyers.
Australia’s Gold Kangaroo series originally launched as the Gold Nugget series in 1986, featuring images of native gold nuggets on the reverse. In 1989, the series underwent a significant redesign, replacing the nuggets with annually changing depictions of kangaroos, Australia’s most iconic marsupial. This transition gave the series a dynamic appeal, as each year’s reverse featured a new kangaroo design, enhancing collectibility and distinguishing it from static bullion designs. The use of .9999 fine gold across all denominations made these coins not only artistically distinctive but also a dependable investment-grade bullion product recognized worldwide for its purity and production quality.
The obverse of the 2009 $5 Gold Kangaroo showcases the regal effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This fourth official portrait of Her Majesty was introduced in 1998 and remained in use until 2018. It depicts the Queen wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, with fine detail in her features and jewelry. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “AUSTRALIA,” and the denomination “5 DOLLARS.” On this MS70 coin, the fields are smooth and the relief sharply defined, offering a flawless rendering of the Queen’s profile and a testament to the Perth Mint’s high-quality production standards.
The reverse design for the 2009 1/20 oz Gold Kangaroo features a stylized image of a red kangaroo bounding through the outback, tail curved and powerful hind legs in motion. In the background, sparse tufts of grass and sunlit terrain evoke the arid beauty of the Australian interior. Above the kangaroo, the inscription reads “AUSTRALIAN KANGAROO,” while below are the specifications: “2009 1/20 oz 9999 GOLD.” The design also incorporates a discreet "P" mintmark to denote the Perth Mint. On this MS70 example, the contrast between the frosted device and lustrous fields provides visual depth, and the intricate detailing of the kangaroo’s musculature and fur remains impeccably struck and unmarred.
Struck by the Perth Mint, one of the most respected producers of precious metal coins in the world, the 1/20th oz Gold Kangaroo reflects the mint’s longstanding reputation for excellence. Located in Western Australia and operating since 1899, the Perth Mint is owned by the Government of Western Australia and produces coins for both domestic and international markets. It is especially known for its gold, silver, and platinum bullion programs, each combining state-of-the-art technology with innovative and culturally relevant designs. The Kangaroo series, particularly the fractional denominations like the 1/20th ounce, illustrates the mint’s commitment to offering accessibility and quality to a global audience of investors and collectors.
In terms of mintage, the 1/20 oz denomination is among the lowest produced sizes within the Kangaroo program. These coins are generally struck to meet demand and are not always issued every year, contributing to their relative scarcity. The exact mintage of the 2009 1/20 oz Gold Kangaroo is notably limited, enhancing its desirability among fractional gold collectors. Additionally, only a small number of these coins achieve a perfect MS70 grade, especially given their tiny diameter and susceptibility to contact marks during handling and packaging. As such, certified perfect specimens are uncommon and command a premium in the numismatic marketplace.
NGC, one of the world’s leading third-party grading services, awarded this 2009 Gold Kangaroo its highest Mint State grade of MS70. This guarantees that the coin is in pristine, as-struck condition with no visible imperfections under magnification. For such a small coin—measuring only about 14mm in diameter—the level of detail and finish achieved is remarkable. The coin’s surfaces exhibit full original luster, sharp edge definition, and a clean strike, making it a standout even among other certified examples. Encased in a protective NGC holder, the coin is shielded from environmental factors and handling damage, ensuring it maintains its pristine condition indefinitely.
From a visual standpoint, the coin is a gem-like piece that showcases the aesthetic potential of small-denomination gold. Its compact form gives it a jewel-like quality, and its precise design execution allows every detail of the kangaroo and the Queen's portrait to shine. For collectors of miniature coinage or fractional gold, the 1/20 oz format is particularly appealing due to its accessibility and its relative scarcity compared to the more common 1 oz and 1/10 oz denominations. It also serves as an excellent choice for gift-giving, commemorative occasions, or for those beginning a gold collection with high-grade, certified pieces.
The 2009 $5 Gold Kangaroo also holds special appeal due to its date. While not a key date in the series in terms of design changes, the continued strength of the gold market during the late 2000s made it a particularly popular time for bullion coin acquisition. Many of the coins sold during this period were quickly stored, traded, or melted for their gold content. Certified examples that remain in perfect condition from this era are therefore relatively fewer in number and tend to be held by committed collectors or long-term investors. This further underscores the collectibility of a PF70 specimen from this specific year and size.
The Australia $5 Gold 1/20th Oz. Kangaroo 2009 MS70 NGC is a rare blend of numismatic perfection, artistic quality, and bullion value. Its flawless grade, low mintage, and enduring design make it a miniature masterpiece in the world of gold coinage. Whether acquired as part of a complete Kangaroo set, as a small but powerful addition to a precious metals portfolio, or as a standalone piece of numismatic beauty, it represents excellence in every regard. A perfect coin from one of the world’s most admired mints, it offers enduring value in a compact and impeccably preserved form.