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The Australia $15 1/10 oz. Gold Koala 2008 PF70 NGC is an exquisite specimen that represents the harmony of precious metal value, exceptional minting artistry, and numismatic prestige. Struck by the Perth Mint in 2008, this coin is part of the renowned Australian Koala series, a program that has become one of the most celebrated wildlife-themed coin collections in the world. As the second year of issue in the Koala series, the 2008 edition holds particular historical significance for collectors. The 1/10 oz. proof gold version, bearing a $15 face value, was minted in limited quantities, and this PF70-certified example by NGC exemplifies perfection in both condition and aesthetic.
Australia’s Perth Mint has been a cornerstone of international coin production since its establishment in 1899. With a reputation for quality, innovation, and artistry, the Mint has introduced numerous iconic series, among which the Koala series has quickly earned a prominent place. Launched in 2007, the Koala program joined the ranks of the Kangaroo and Kookaburra series but distinguished itself by offering annually changing designs and a focus on Australia’s most beloved marsupial. Proof coins, like this 1/10 oz. example, are crafted with heightened precision, polished dies, and limited mintages, targeting the collector market rather than the bullion investor.
The obverse of the coin features the portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This widely recognized effigy portrays the Queen in right-facing profile, adorned with the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. The portrait is encircled by inscriptions reading “ELIZABETH II,” “AUSTRALIA,” and the denomination “15 DOLLARS.” As a legal tender coin issued under the authority of the Australian government, this obverse design affirms the coin’s status as both a collectible and a monetary instrument, though its market value far exceeds its face denomination due to its gold content and collector demand.
The reverse of the coin showcases a finely detailed koala resting in the crook of a eucalyptus tree. This design, unique to the 2008 issue, was created to evoke the tranquil, contemplative nature of the animal in its native habitat. Rendered with exceptional attention to texture and composition, the fur of the koala, the bark of the tree, and the leaves of the eucalyptus are all sharply defined against a brilliant mirrored field. The inscriptions include “KOALA,” the year “2008,” the weight and purity “1/10 OZ 9999 GOLD,” and the Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark. The reverse effectively captures the spirit of the series and the appeal of Australia’s wildlife.
This coin contains 1/10 troy ounce of .9999 fine gold, making it a favorite among collectors and investors who prefer fractional weights. The high purity of the gold ensures intrinsic value, while the small size enhances accessibility and flexibility for those building gold portfolios or diverse numismatic collections. Fractional proof coins are especially desirable due to their lower mintage and the difficulty involved in striking such minute detail on smaller surfaces. The 1/10 oz. denomination offers a satisfying balance between affordability and visual presence, especially when certified in a perfect grade.
The coin has been graded PF70 Ultra Cameo by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), indicating that it is flawless under 5x magnification and displays the highest level of contrast between its frosted design and mirrored background. The Ultra Cameo (UCAM) designation is particularly prized in modern proof coins, as it denotes a strong visual distinction between raised elements and flat fields, bringing the coin’s artistry into sharper relief. As a top-graded coin, this 2008 Gold Koala carries a premium not only for its condition but for its visual perfection and completeness as a collector’s item.
The mintage of the 2008 1/10 oz. Gold Koala proof coin was highly limited. Only a few thousand pieces were struck, with many either held in private collections or encapsulated in original Perth Mint packaging. Coins that received PF70 grades from NGC or other top-tier grading services comprise only a fraction of that number. This scarcity elevates the desirability of such examples, particularly for collectors who specialize in full sets or early-year issues. The low mintage also enhances the investment potential, as demand for early Koala proofs has steadily increased with the growing popularity of the series.
The presentation of the coin also contributes to its value and appeal. Although the coin has been professionally encapsulated by NGC in a tamper-proof holder with its PF70 grade prominently displayed, original issues were sold in elegant black Perth Mint cases with a numbered certificate of authenticity. These presentation cases emphasized the coin’s collector-focused nature, and those examples that retain all original packaging in addition to certification are particularly sought after by advanced collectors. NGC-certified coins, however, enjoy the benefit of third-party assurance and long-term preservation.
The Koala series overall has been a testament to the artistic and technical capabilities of the Perth Mint. With annually rotating designs and diverse formats in both silver and gold, the Koala program has become one of the most diverse and attractive coin series in the modern era. The 2008 edition, as an early issue, is especially valued for its role in establishing the series’ artistic direction and setting a standard for what collectors could expect in terms of quality and thematic execution. The 1/10 oz. gold proof coin occupies a special niche within this series, appealing to those who collect by denomination, design, or grade.
Collectors of Australian gold, wildlife-themed coinage, and modern proofs will find that the 2008 $15 Gold Koala in PF70 Ultra Cameo condition offers a unique intersection of art, rarity, and precious metal content. As a coin that encapsulates national pride, fine design, and impeccable production, it serves as both a standalone masterpiece and a building block for broader sets. Its appeal endures not only because of the beloved subject but also because of its flawless execution and limited availability. For those seeking a perfect example of a modern collectible gold coin, the 2008 1/10 oz. Gold Koala stands as a brilliant and enduring choice.
The Australia $15 1/10 oz. Gold Koala 2008 PF70 NGC remains a shining highlight in any collection, revered for its perfect preservation, delicate detail, and symbolism of Australian wildlife. With its low mintage, top-tier certification, and connection to one of the world’s premier mints, this coin is not only a treasure of the present but a legacy piece for future generations of numismatists.