Thursday 25 June 2009
MEDIA RELEASE
The Perth Mint celebrates the Sydney 2009 World Masters Games with the release of two special Australian legal tender commemorative coins.
Sydney will host the seventh edition of the world's largest multi-sport event from 10-18 October, with this year's Games motto being 'fit, fun and forever young'.
Held every four years, the Games represent a chance for sportspersons of all ages and abilities to compete in a major international sports event, with Games organisers expecting that 25,000 people from more than 100 countries will grasp the outstanding sports opportunity that this year's event in Sydney provides.
To mark this year's Games, The Perth Mint has struck a stunning 1oz 99.9% pure silver coin in proof quality and an uncirculated Australian $1 commemorative coin under official license from the Games Organising Committee.
Meticulously crafted, the silver coin depicts the 503-metre span of Sydney's iconic Harbour Bridge above a stylised representation of water accentuated in colour. The Games motto and coloured logo, as well as The Perth Mint's 'P' mintmark, also feature as part of the reverse design.
The Perth Mint will release just 5,000 of these stunning keepsakes which are presented in custom-designed packaging portraying silhouetted figures playing sport and are accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
The $1 coin bears a similar design struck in traditional bullion quality and is housed in a themed presentation card to an unlimited mintage.
Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, both coins bear the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on their obverses.
Ed Harbuz, Chief Executive Officer of The Perth Mint, said that the Games, like other premier sports competitions, warrant their own special numismatic tribute.
"The coins are expected to be popular among competitors, officials, volunteers and supporters alike, as they provide an ideal memento of their involvement in this unique sporting event," he said.
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On sale from Thursday 2 July, which coincides with 100 days to go until the Games, the 1oz silver commemorative will retail for $97.50 and the uncirculated $1 coin for an affordable $13.95.
Both coins will be available on FREECALL 1800 098 817 or from The Perth Mint Shop, located at 310 Hay Street, East Perth. Purchasers may also order online at www.perthmint.com.au or check availability with their local coin dealer, including Australia Post.
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Ron Currie, Sales and Marketing Director, The Perth Mint
Telephone: (08) 9421 7269 Mobile: 0412 559 067
Email: ron.currie@perthmint.com.au
Mark Worwood, Media Manager, Sydney 2009 World Masters Games
Telephone: (02) 8116 2018 Mobile: 0408 894 935
