Celebrating 40 years of The Australian Precious Metals Coin Program
From its origins as The Australian Nugget to its transformation into a global symbol of Australian identity, The Australian Precious Metals Coin Program reflects both artistic excellence and holds a strong reputation as a trusted store of wealth.
As the program celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026, let’s take a step back in time to explore the remarkable history behind this enduring Australian treasure.
A golden beginning
The Australian Precious Metals Coin Program began formally on 8 August 1985, when the Prime Minister and the Federal Treasurer gave approval to a proposal from the West Australian Government that Australia launch an ounce-denominated gold coin in international markets.
The coins were conceived as the keystone in a program to develop innovative, value-added precious metals products and market them worldwide to benefit the Australian mining industry and nation as a whole. Produced from Australian gold, the coins were to be struck here at the Mint.
The choice of design and name for the coin was critical. One preliminary concept was based on the wattle blossom. However, the theme was rejected because few people outside of Australia identified the country with its national flower. The next concept considered was a map of Australia, however this was also rejected because it failed to provide an appropriate name. At this point a new direction was decided that the name and theme should position the coin as being synonymous with gold, and the concept of nuggets as the design theme appeared to be an ideal choice for Australia’s new series of gold coins. 
The first proof issue of The Australian Nugget was released in late 1986. Struck from 99.99% pure gold, The Australian Nugget 1oz Gold Proof Coin was the nation’s first legal tender gold proof coin and featured a depiction of the famous Welcome Stranger nugget found in 1869 — the largest alluvial gold nugget ever found.
Also released were fractional sizes depicting other famous natural nuggets such as Hand of Faith (1980), Golden Eagle (1931) and Little Hero (1890) - the only program in the world to feature a different design on the reverse of all four sizes in the issue.
It was followed a few months later by the Australian Nugget Gold Bullion Coins. As a result of the success of the Nugget, Australia became the first country to announce its intention to issue bullion coins in three precious metals – gold, silver and platinum.
Former prime minister Bob Hawke launching The Australian Precious Metals Coin Program.
The kangaroo takes centre stage
In 1989, we made a pivotal change: replacing nugget imagery with a more universally recognised Australian icon — the kangaroo. This marked the birth of The Australian Kangaroo Coin Series, which continues to captivate investors worldwide.
The first kangaroo design was created by Stuart Devlin, a master goldsmith and one of Australia’s most celebrated designers. After winning the 1964 competition to design Australia’s decimal coinage, Devlin’s work became a part of everyday life — from the echidna on the five-cent coin to the platypus on the fifty-cent piece.
His influence extended far beyond Australia. Devlin designed coins and medals for over 30 countries, including commemorative pieces for the Sydney 2000 Olympics and the Order of Australia. In 1982, he was appointed Goldsmith and Jeweller to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a testament to his global reputation.
Devlin’s dynamic portrayal of a kangaroo leaping across the outback landscape became an instant classic and remains a cornerstone of the series.
Today, the Australian Kangaroo 1 Kilo Gold Bullion Coin, as well as the designs for the silver and platinum bullion coins retains Devlin’s original design, while other denominations feature new kangaroo designs annually.
Here is a timeline showcasing the incredible array of designs featured across the 40-year history — each one a unique reflection of Australia’s natural beauty, gold heritage, and artistic innovation.
General Manager Minted Products, Neil Vance says, “For four decades, the Australian Precious Metals Coin Program has stood as a hallmark of excellence in the Australian precious metals industry. Its global recognition, artistic integrity, and trusted purity have made it a cornerstone of the international bullion market. As we celebrate 40 years of this iconic program, we honour not only its legacy but also the confidence it continues to inspire in investors around the world.”
2026 Australian Kangaroo Bullion Coin Series
In 2026, the kangaroo once again takes centre stage on the gold coin designs, this time with a striking depiction of two kangaroos leaping through shimmering waters. It also features a distinctive ‘40’ privy mark, to commemorate 40 years of this incredible program.
Available in 99.99% pure gold, 99.99% pure silver and 99.95% pure platinum, the globally renowned Australian Kangaroo Bullion Coins are a perfect choice for investors seeking premium precious metals backed by more than 125 years of minting excellence.
To purchase visit The Perth Mint Shop or perthmint.com
