Fabulous phoenix

An ancient symbol of honesty, benevolence and knowledge, the mythical phoenix’s rare appearances were believed to herald forthcoming happiness, harmony and prosperity. An immortal creature, it is traditionally portrayed as a fusion of several other birds - including the head of a pheasant, the body of a mandarin duck, the tail of a peacock, the beak of a parrot and the wings of a swallow.

High relief strike

The coin portrays a phoenix in stunning high relief. In its beak is the flower of a paulownia tree, said to be the only species on which the phoenix will perch. Also included in the design are stylised representations of clouds, symbols of abundance and good fortune, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.