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DESCRIPTION
2024 $1 Koala Series 1oz 99.99AG Fine Silver Investment Coin - RAM -in Capsule
with Memorial Obverse of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
Mintage 25,000
The Australian Koala, is amongst the most recognisable of Australia’s distinctive native animals, features on the Royal Australian Mint’s newest Investment coin.
Koalas inhabit eastern and southern Australian coastal regions, living mostly on eucalyptus leaves. Disease and loss of habitat has reduced populations and Koalas are now classed as vulnerable.
When Europeans first settled in Australia, they marvelled at the unusual native animals, among them were Koalas; which they incorrectly described as a bear. Koalas ere of course well known to indigenous peoples who hunted them for food.
Hunting for skins for export in the 19th and early 20th centuries led to a population decline, prompting perhaps Australia’s first large-scale environmental response. Once ranked as a least concern species, Koalas are now classed as vulnerable and are fully protected under Australian environmental law.
Koalas inhabit woodlands along the eastern and southern Australian coasts and live on a diet of mostly leaves of eucalyptus trees. Human encroachment on habitats poses a significant threat. The shy gentle Koala is beloved by Australians, featuring in such classic children stories as The Adventures of Blinky Bill. Through their appeal to tourists, Koalas make a notable contribution to the Australian Economy.