Named for its long, distinctively shaped tail, the Australian wedge-tailed eagle has a wingspan of more than 2.5 metres. With the ability to fly tirelessly for many hours, it’s known to soar at altitudes of 2,000 metres and beyond on thermal air currents rising from Australia’s sun-baked terrain.

The coin portrays a dramatic close-up impression of the magnificent bird’s head. The artistry highlights its superbly effective eyes, which allow it to pinpoint prey from a great height, and a large, hooked beak, which it uses to rip the hide and meat from prey. As well as the inscription AUSTRALIAN WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark, the reverse also includes the coin’s weight, fineness and its 2022 year-date.