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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56745
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 07/15/25 12:41:02 | ||
Platinum
 23.61
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$1,390.09 | $1,414.73 |
The 2019 Australia 1/3 oz. Platinum Humpback Whale coin is a modern collectible and investment bullion piece that combines one of the world's rarest precious metals with the image of one of the ocean’s most majestic creatures. Issued by the Royal Australian Mint, this coin forms part of the popular “Australian Sea Life” or “Whales” bullion series and represents a commitment to artistic excellence, low mintage scarcity, and high purity. Struck in .9995 fine platinum, the coin is a legal tender issue of Australia with a face value of $50 AUD. The depiction of the humpback whale, an iconic symbol of Australia’s marine biodiversity, is both thematically rich and visually striking, making the coin a strong addition to modern platinum collections.
The obverse of the 2019 1/3 oz. Platinum Humpback Whale features the well-known effigy of Queen Elizabeth II designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This portrait was used widely on Australian coinage from 1998 through 2019 and presents the Queen facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Surrounding her likeness is the inscription “ELIZABETH II • AUSTRALIA 2019 • 50 DOLLARS,” indicating the monarch, country of origin, date of issue, and face value. The design is executed with a finely frosted finish, offering a dignified presentation of the sovereign whose image lends credibility and legal authority to the coin under Australian law.
The reverse design of the coin showcases a dramatic depiction of a humpback whale breaching the surface of the ocean. Captured mid-leap, the whale is shown in profile with impressive anatomical detail, its tail flukes arched behind and powerful fins extended forward. The design artist skillfully portrays the immense size and grace of the whale, with cascading water spray and stylized wave lines adding to the dynamic energy of the scene. The background is left clear to emphasize the purity of the platinum, and the top of the reverse is inscribed with “HUMPBACK WHALE,” while the bottom includes the specifications “1/3 oz .9995 Pt,” with “Pt” standing for platinum.
The choice of the humpback whale for this coin pays tribute to a creature that plays a significant role in Australia’s maritime environment. These whales migrate annually along Australia’s eastern and western coasts and are a beloved sight among coastal communities and tourists. By honoring the humpback whale in platinum, the Royal Australian Mint bridges the natural world with the investment world, making this coin not only a sound asset but also an educational and environmental statement. The coin’s marine theme also aligns well with Australia’s longstanding commitment to wildlife conservation and eco-awareness.
The coin contains exactly one-third of a troy ounce (approximately 10.37 grams) of .9995 fine platinum, a level of purity that meets the highest international standards for platinum bullion. Measuring 27.60 mm in diameter, the coin strikes a balance between portability and display presence, making it suitable for collectors and investors alike. The unique 1/3 oz. weight is relatively uncommon in the bullion market and provides an attractive middle ground between fractional sizes like 1/10 oz. and full ounce coins. It is especially appealing to buyers who want a more flexible way to invest in platinum without committing to the higher cost of a 1 oz. coin.
Minted by the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra, this coin reflects the high quality, precision, and artistic integrity for which the institution is renowned. The Royal Australian Mint is wholly owned by the government and produces all of Australia’s circulating coinage in addition to a variety of premium collectible and bullion products. Their platinum coinage, though less frequently issued than gold and silver counterparts, consistently receives high marks for design quality, limited mintage, and strong global demand. Each platinum coin undergoes stringent production controls to ensure consistency in weight, purity, and strike.
The 2019 1/3 oz. Platinum Humpback Whale was released with a strictly limited mintage, believed to be fewer than 3,000 pieces worldwide, though the exact final mintage remains a closely held figure. This low production volume enhances the coin’s appeal to collectors who prioritize scarcity and potential for long-term appreciation. Unlike mass-produced bullion pieces, limited mintage coins like this one often gain numismatic value over time, particularly when preserved in pristine condition. The coin’s rarity, coupled with its unique subject and platinum content, positions it as a compelling option for both bullion investors and series completists.
In Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, the 2019 Platinum Humpback Whale displays sharp, clean surfaces with no signs of handling or wear. BU coins typically feature lightly frosted design elements and highly reflective fields, giving the coin a near-prooflike appearance without the cost of formal proof minting. The humpback whale’s textured body, water droplets, and subtle wave patterns are rendered with exceptional clarity, creating a lifelike and immersive scene. Proper storage in capsules or original mint packaging is advised to maintain the coin’s pristine condition, as platinum’s soft surface is susceptible to scratches and blemishes.
The use of platinum, one of the world’s rarest and most valuable precious metals, adds another dimension of desirability to the coin. Platinum has extensive industrial uses in automotive catalytic converters, electronics, and medical applications, which contributes to its fluctuating supply-demand dynamics. These factors make platinum bullion coins a distinctive asset class, separate from gold and silver, and well-suited for diversification in physical precious metal portfolios. Additionally, platinum coins from trusted sovereign mints like the Royal Australian Mint offer reassurance in authenticity, legal recognition, and ease of resale in international markets.
In conclusion, the 2019 Australia 1/3 oz. Platinum Humpback Whale is a sophisticated, limited-mintage bullion coin that brings together natural beauty, national symbolism, and one of the rarest precious metals in the world. With its .9995 platinum purity, detailed and meaningful marine-themed design, uncommon denomination, and low availability, the coin stands as a desirable acquisition for collectors and investors alike. Whether added to a themed wildlife collection or acquired as a hedge in a diversified portfolio, this platinum piece reflects excellence in design, rarity, and intrinsic value—hallmarks of modern numismatic artistry.