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- Product ID: 19088
The 2012 Australian Kangaroo 1 oz Silver High Relief Proof, certified PF70 by NGC, is a stunning numismatic piece that combines exceptional artistry with pristine preservation. Issued by the world-renowned Perth Mint, this silver coin showcases the majesty of Australia’s most iconic marsupial in extraordinary high relief detail. With a perfect Proof 70 grade from the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), this coin represents the finest possible quality for collectors and investors. Its gleaming mirrored fields and frosted devices are elevated by the coin's high relief striking, creating a sculptural presence that sets it apart from standard proof coinage.
The Australian Kangaroo series is one of the Perth Mint’s most beloved annual programs, celebrating the country’s most recognizable native animal. While the kangaroo has appeared on numerous Australian coin designs since the 1930s, the dedicated silver series has offered collectors an ever-evolving view of the creature in various natural poses and settings. The 2012 edition, released as part of the high relief subset, emphasizes depth and three-dimensionality, offering a bolder and more dramatic depiction of the kangaroo than its standard proof counterpart. This version is not intended for general circulation or bullion investment but is crafted specifically for collectors who value limited mintage and exquisite presentation.
The obverse of the 2012 Australian Kangaroo High Relief coin features the classic effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This portrait was the standard depiction used on Australian currency from 1999 through the end of Queen Elizabeth’s reign. It shows the monarch facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. The inscriptions encircling the image include “ELIZABETH II,” “AUSTRALIA,” and the denomination “1 DOLLAR.” On this high relief proof, the Queen’s profile is rendered with enhanced sculptural quality, appearing to almost lift off the coin’s surface. In PF70 condition, the obverse remains flawlessly struck, with brilliant mirrored fields and a richly frosted bust showing no blemishes, haze, or post-production flaws.
The reverse design of the 2012 coin presents a single adult kangaroo poised mid-stride in the arid Australian outback. The background includes stylized desert flora and a clear field that enhances the central subject. Above the kangaroo arcs the inscription “AUSTRALIAN KANGAROO,” and below are the details of weight and purity: “2012 1 OZ 999 SILVER.” The Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark appears subtly to the right of the kangaroo. On the high relief format, this design is deeply etched into the coin, offering stunning dimensionality and a tactile presence that standard proof coins lack. Every strand of fur, curve of muscle, and feature of the terrain is brought to life through precision striking and the mirror-finish technique that defines the proof standard.
The Perth Mint, established in 1899 as a branch of the Royal Mint in London, has become one of the most prestigious mints in the world, known for its production of gold, silver, and platinum bullion and collector coins. The mint's attention to detail and innovative presentation techniques have made its high relief issues particularly desirable among modern numismatists. High relief coins require lower striking speeds and multiple blows to create the increased depth and sculptural appearance of the design. As a result, they are minted in smaller numbers and often offered in special presentations that appeal to premium collectors looking for extraordinary craftsmanship and limited mintage rarity.
The mintage of the 2012 Australian Kangaroo 1 oz Silver High Relief coin was strictly limited to just 20,000 pieces worldwide. This controlled production ensures that demand for the coin remains high, particularly for examples graded a perfect PF70. Among those 20,000, only a fraction will ever be certified at this flawless level, further narrowing the available population and increasing the coin’s desirability for registry sets and long-term investment portfolios. The low mintage combined with the unique high relief format contributes significantly to the coin’s collectible value, as it occupies a niche that merges art, scarcity, and national symbolism in one troy ounce of fine silver.
Certified by NGC, one of the two leading third-party grading services in the world, the PF70 Ultra Cameo designation assures collectors that this coin is free from any post-production imperfections visible under 5x magnification. The “Ultra Cameo” label further indicates the stark contrast between the frosted design and the mirrored field, which is particularly striking on high relief proofs due to their exaggerated depth. NGC’s tamper-evident, sonically sealed holders provide long-term protection for the coin while showcasing it with a professional and attractive label that includes its grade, certification number, and identifying details. The PF70 grade places this coin at the pinnacle of numismatic excellence.
The condition of this PF70 high relief proof is beyond reproach. The coin’s surfaces are immaculate, with flawless mirrored fields that gleam with undisturbed brilliance. The frosted devices, including both the Queen’s portrait and the central kangaroo figure, are crisply defined and evenly frosted, with no signs of wear, toning, or milk spots. The rim is smooth and complete, with the reeded edge sharp and untouched. When viewed under magnification, no hairlines, contact marks, or imperfections can be detected, attesting to the skill of the mint and the integrity of the preservation process. It is a textbook example of the finest modern numismatic product.
The 2012 Australian Kangaroo 1 oz Silver High Relief PF70 NGC offers collectors a compelling combination of beauty, rarity, and pedigree. Its subject matter—the kangaroo—embodies the Australian continent and is instantly recognizable around the globe. Its high relief strike elevates the already dynamic design to an even more artistic and sculptural level, while its flawless certification ensures it meets the most demanding standards of preservation. As a modern classic in silver numismatics, it represents both the best of the Perth Mint’s contemporary output and a continuation of Australia’s proud coinage tradition.
Whether acquired as part of a complete Kangaroo series, a focus on high relief coinage, or as a standalone piece of numismatic art, the 2012 Australian Kangaroo 1 oz Silver High Relief PF70 NGC is a coin of enduring quality and distinction. Its combination of perfect grade, limited mintage, and masterful design guarantees that it will hold a special place in any collection. As both a tribute to Australian wildlife and a testament to modern minting excellence, this coin is a brilliant example of how precious metal can serve not only as an investment but also as a timeless expression of national pride and artistic beauty.