The bird of paradise is famously associated with the island of New Guinea, where its beautiful plumes are used as currency by local tribes and worn as adornments during cultural ceremonies.
A few species also inhabit north eastern areas of Australia, the ‘great southern land’ to which New Guinea was once physically connected.
A remarkable example is Victoria’s riflebird, a species endemic to Queensland’s Atherton Tableland where it lives year-round in the rainforest.
Known as the ‘duwuduwu’ to the indigenous Yidinji people, it was recorded by Scottish naturalist John Macgillivray in 1848 and subsequently named after the reigning UK monarch, Queen Victoria.
In colour, the male bird’s similarity to the uniforms of contemporary British riflemen is the purported reason for its common title. Predominantly velvety black, the plumage includes areas of iridescent greenish blue, purple and bronze which are used to showy effect during its theatrical courtship dance.
This flamboyant display involves a series of initial nodding, weaving and flapping movements. As a dramatic finale, the bird holds its head high while arching its wings skyward in a dramatic appeal for a mate.
Australian Bird of Paradise 1oz Gold and Silver Bullion Coins
The Perth Mint is delighted to showcase an Australian bird of paradise with this stunning representation of Victoria’s riflebird on two superb new Australian bullion coins. Struck from 1oz of 99.99% pure silver and 1oz of 99.99% pure gold, they have maximum mintages of just 50,000 and 5,000 respectively.
With only limited stock available, registered Perth Mint clients are urged to place their orders at www.perthmintbullion.com as soon as possible. Alternatively, please call Customer Services on 1300 201 112, or visit our Bullion Trading Room in person at 310 Hay Street, East Perth.
All other investors interested in this limited release are invited to contact the exclusive international distributor Auragentum.
