New coin artwork captures the spirit of the emu
Paying tribute to the emu as a symbol of significance in Aboriginal culture, we are thrilled to announce the latest release in our Indigenous art series. The Emu Utingat 2025 2oz Silver Antiqued Coloured Coin follows the overwhelming success of our previous coin designs in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
The emu, known as “Utingat” in the Kalkadoon language, is Australia’s largest native bird. In Dreamtime stories, the emu is believed to have travelled the songlines in search of food and water, and as such, is a symbol of strength and endurance in First Nations culture.
Their feathers have been used for decoration, tools and ceremony for generations. Found across Australia’s coastal regions, forests and mountain landscapes, the emu is a flightless bird equipped with long and powerful legs, enabling it to sprint at speeds of nearly 50km per hour.
In Indigenous art, the emu is often depicted with its head held high looking towards the sky, signifying its connection to the spiritual realm.
About the coin designer
The coin’s original artwork is created by Chern’ee Sutton, a proud Kalkadoon woman and leading contemporary Aboriginal artist. Guiding her creative practice is a deep respect for her culture and heritage, developed under the mentorship of her mother.
Her paintings are known for captivating stories of her people, taking you on a visual journey and showcasing her exceptional colour, composition, and texture skills.
Chern’ee’s professional achievements are significant. She has received numerous commissions from local, state and federal government departments, and two artworks are proudly part of the prestigious Royal Collection at Buckingham Palace.
Behind the design
The coin’s design is a stunning example of Chern’ee’s artistic style and skill. At the centre of the coin is an emu with cultural markings and three young chicks. The background comprises a large yellow circle surrounded by yellow, orange and red coloured dots representing the sun and its far-reaching rays.
The community symbol in the centre of the sun symbolises the many diverse communities and landscapes the emu calls home. A grey floating feather adds further meaning, with emus often leaving their feathers around their nests and across country.
The green and brown arches serve as mountains, while the blue lined pattern features a trail of footprints highlighting the emu’s track and journey through life. This element also represents a flowing river, with the circles inside and around symbolising waterholes. Included in the design is a ‘P’ mintmark and the 2025 year-date.
The coin’s obverse portrays the Dan Thorne effigy of His Majesty King Charles III. Also included are the coin’s weight, purity, and monetary denomination.
Limited edition collectable with cultural value
Perfect for collectors with interests spanning Indigenous art and Australian culture, this release not only supports the preservation and sharing of First Nations stories but also reinforces the evolving role of collectable coins as vehicles for cultural expression.
With no more than 2,000 of the Emu Utingat 2025 2oz Silver Antiqued Coloured Coin available, we recommend ordering soon before it sells outs.
