In a ceremony at the Australia Zoo, the newest coin in the Royal Australian Mint's Inspirational Australians collector coin series was officially released in November.
Celebrating the life and impact of perhaps Australia's best known son, the 2009 $1 Inspirational Australian Steve Irwin Uncirculated Coin was launched with the help of his wife Terri Irwin, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Australian Mint Graham Smith, and some of the creatures that inhabit the Zoo.
"Steve would have been so proud to see his work elevated to yet another level. His efforts in conservation recognized on a national coin! We are all very proud of him," said Terri Irwin, Steve's wife.
Steve Irwin was the host of the popular television series Crocodile Hunter and a life-long naturalist and conservationist. He died unexpectedly at age 44 when he was pierced in the chest with the spine of a stingray while snorkeling.
Previous to his death, Steve and his wife also ran the Australia Zoo, which his parents had founded. Through both his television show and his work at the Zoo, it was evident of his love for all wildlife.
The coin honoring his memory was designed by Mint designer and sculptor Caitlin Goodall and features a smiling Irwin surrounded by many of the native creatures he adored.
"Steve Irwin captured the hearts of the world with his incredible energy and passion for Australian native animals and reptiles," said the Royal Australian Mint's Acting Chief Executive Officer Graham Smith. "Collectors share a similar passion for collecting coins and this release will be a great addition to their collection. Steve Irwin convinced us all to think about wildlife in a new and exciting way. His legacy will live on forever with the release of this new coin, enabling all Australians to hold a piece of history in their very own hands."
The uncirculated $1 coin is available now from the Royal Australian Mint, either via their website at www.ramint.gov.au, or by calling the Mint at 1300 652 020 (in Australia) or +61 2 6202 6800 (internationally). Composed of aluminum and bronze, the 25mm diameter, 9 gram weight coin has a price of AUS $12.95.
