The Perth Mint Next Generation Series: Australian Wildlife Silver Coins, Designs, History and Mintage Guide

The Perth Mint Next Generation Series is one of Australia’s distinctive modern silver bullion collections, combining precious-metal investment appeal with detailed representations of native wildlife. Introduced in 2018, the series became especially recognizable for portraying adult animals together with their young. This “mother and baby” concept gives the collection a strong Australian identity while distinguishing it from many conventional bullion programs that feature a single animal.

Produced in high-purity silver and struck in an unusually thick piedfort format, the Next Generation coins appeal to both bullion buyers and collectors. Each annual release focuses on a different Australian species, creating a continuing wildlife theme that includes koalas, crocodiles, kookaburras, platypuses, dingoes, kangaroos and emus.

Limited mintages add another important dimension. The standard 2 oz releases were generally restricted to a maximum of 75,000 coins, while the substantially scarcer 10 oz pieces were produced in much smaller numbers. For collectors interested in Australian wildlife, Perth Mint silver coins or limited-mintage bullion, the Next Generation Series offers an interesting combination of silver content, changing artwork and annual collectability.

History of the Perth Mint Next Generation Series

The Next Generation Series began in 2018 with a design featuring one of Australia’s best-known animals: the koala. Instead of presenting only an adult koala, the design emphasized the relationship between generations by depicting an adult together with its young.

This concept became the defining characteristic of the collection.

The series was developed as a silver bullion program, but its design approach made the coins attractive beyond their intrinsic metal value. Every year introduced a different species, encouraging collectors to assemble a complete chronological set.

Another important feature was the use of the piedfort format. Piedfort coins are noticeably thicker than ordinary coins of similar diameter. The format gives the pieces a substantial feel in the hand and helps the Next Generation Series stand apart visually from conventional one-ounce silver bullion coins.

The combination of Australian wildlife, limited production and thick silver blanks established a recognizable identity from the first release.

Complete Next Generation Series Mintage List

The following list summarizes the principal silver releases from 2018 through 2024.

The 10 oz editions are particularly notable because their mintages are dramatically lower than those of the 2 oz coins. The inaugural 2018 Koala 10 oz release was limited to only 1,500 pieces, while subsequent 10 oz issues generally had maximum mintages of 2,500.

Mintage alone does not determine market value, but it is an important factor collectors consider alongside condition, demand, availability and the popularity of a particular animal design.

2018 Koala – The Beginning of the Series

The 2018 Australian Koala launched the Next Generation concept. Koalas were a natural choice for the first issue because they are among the most internationally recognizable symbols of Australian wildlife.

The design features an adult koala with its young, immediately establishing the parent-and-offspring theme that would continue through later releases.

The 2 oz silver Koala had a maximum mintage of 75,000 pieces, with a declared production figure of 74,987. The larger 10 oz version was much scarcer, with a maximum mintage of only 1,500.

Because it represents the beginning of the collection, the 2018 Koala is often significant to collectors attempting to complete the entire Next Generation sequence.

2019 Crocodile – A Dramatic Australian Predator

The second release shifted from a gentle marsupial to one of Australia’s most formidable reptiles.

The 2019 Crocodile depicts an adult crocodile accompanied by its young. The subject introduced greater visual diversity into the series and demonstrated that the collection would explore different categories of native Australian wildlife rather than focusing exclusively on marsupials.

The 2 oz coin was limited to a maximum mintage of 75,000, while the 10 oz version had a maximum of 2,500.

The crocodile design remains distinctive because of its powerful subject and the contrast it creates with the softer character of the inaugural Koala.

2020 Kookaburra – An Iconic Australian Bird

In 2020, the Next Generation Series featured the kookaburra, one of Australia’s most familiar native birds.

The kookaburra has a particularly strong connection with Australian coinage because it has also appeared in one of The Perth Mint’s most established bullion programs. The Next Generation interpretation, however, maintained the collection’s family theme by presenting the bird with its young.

The 2020 Kookaburra was issued with a maximum mintage of 75,000 for the 2 oz format and 2,500 for the 10 oz edition.

For collectors who already follow the long-running Australian Kookaburra bullion program, the Next Generation release offers a different artistic interpretation of the famous bird.

2021 Platypus – Celebrating a Unique Australian Species

The fourth coin in the series featured the platypus.

Few animals represent Australia’s unusual biodiversity as effectively as the platypus. Its distinctive appearance and aquatic lifestyle provided the designers with an opportunity to create imagery substantially different from previous releases.

The 2021 coin depicts an adult platypus together with its young, continuing the central generational theme.

Production was again limited to a maximum of 75,000 pieces for the 2 oz version and 2,500 for the 10 oz release.

The Platypus is particularly interesting within a complete set because its aquatic design adds variety alongside the land animals and birds featured elsewhere in the collection.

2022 Dingo – Australia’s Famous Wild Dog

The 2022 Next Generation release celebrated the dingo.

The dingo is deeply associated with the Australian landscape and has become one of the continent’s best-known wild animals. The coin shows an adult dingo and its pup, maintaining the family relationship central to the series.

The 2 oz Dingo was produced with a maximum mintage of 75,000 coins, while the 10 oz version was limited to 2,500.

Its subject gives the collection another completely different form of Australian wildlife and helps broaden the overall appeal of a complete Next Generation set.

2023 Kangaroo – Australia’s International Animal Symbol

The kangaroo became the subject of the 2023 Next Generation release.

Few animals are more strongly associated with Australia. Kangaroos already have a major place in Australian numismatics, but the Next Generation design approached the animal through the series’ characteristic adult-and-young presentation.

The 2 oz Kangaroo carried a maximum mintage of 75,000, while the 10 oz edition was limited to 2,500.

Because kangaroos are instantly recognizable around the world, this issue has broad thematic appeal among collectors of Australian coins and wildlife bullion.

2024 Emu – Continuing the Wildlife Tradition

The 2024 release turned to another famous Australian animal: the emu.

The design portrays an adult emu with chicks in an Australian landscape. The 2024 issue is also notable for incorporating a special P125 mintmark commemorating The Perth Mint’s 125th anniversary.

The 10 oz silver piedfort coin contains 10 troy ounces of 99.99% pure silver and has a maximum mintage of only 2,500 pieces. The corresponding 2 oz issue continued the familiar limited-production structure associated with the series.

The 2024 coins also reflect Australia’s transition to the effigy of King Charles III, giving this release additional historical interest when compared with earlier issues bearing portraits associated with Queen Elizabeth II.

Silver Purity and Piedfort Design

One of the strongest characteristics of the Next Generation Series is its precious-metal specification.

The coins are struck from 99.99% pure silver, making them suitable for buyers who want physical silver while also appreciating collectible designs.

The 2 oz coins contain approximately 62.2 grams of silver and generally measure a little over 40 millimetres in diameter. Their unusually thick construction produces the characteristic piedfort appearance.

The 10 oz coins contain approximately 311.1 grams of silver and are considerably larger and thicker.

Because a piedfort coin places greater weight into a relatively compact diameter, it has a noticeably substantial profile. This gives Next Generation coins a different appearance and feel compared with thinner bullion pieces of similar silver weight.

Design and Security Features

Visual detail is central to the appeal of the collection.

The wildlife scenes generally emphasize natural behaviour and the relationship between the adult animal and its offspring. Radial patterns have also been incorporated into the designs, adding texture and complexity.

Later releases include micro-engraved security features designed to make unauthorized reproduction more difficult. These tiny elements may require magnification to identify clearly.

The traditional Perth Mint “P” mintmark also appears on the coins, connecting the collection to the institution that produced them.

These features help combine artistic presentation with modern bullion manufacturing techniques.

Why Mintage Matters to Collectors

Mintage is one of the most closely watched figures in modern coin collecting.

A coin with a limited production run has a fixed or restricted potential supply. If collector demand increases while availability decreases, certain issues may develop stronger premiums in the secondary market.

However, low mintage does not automatically guarantee higher prices. Value can also depend on the popularity of the design, overall market demand, silver prices, coin condition, dealer inventories and the number of collectors attempting to build complete sets.

Within the Next Generation Series, the 10 oz coins stand out because only 1,500 to 2,500 were permitted for each release. This is substantially lower than the typical 75,000 maximum applied to the 2 oz coins.

For that reason, collectors pursuing complete 10 oz sets may encounter considerably fewer pieces in the marketplace.

Collecting the Perth Mint Next Generation Series

There are several ways collectors can approach this series.

Some concentrate entirely on the 2 oz coins, which provide the full annual wildlife sequence while requiring less silver per coin than the larger format.

Others focus on the scarcer 10 oz editions because of their significantly lower mintages.

A third approach is to collect both sizes for every year. This creates a more comprehensive collection but requires considerably more silver and storage space.

Condition should also be considered carefully. Contact marks, scratches, spotting and improper handling can influence collector desirability. Coins stored in suitable capsules or original protective packaging are generally easier to preserve.

Collectors purchasing earlier issues should also verify basic specifications, weight, dimensions and design details, especially when buying from secondary markets.

Bullion Value Versus Collector Value

Every Next Generation silver coin has a fundamental precious-metal component because of its silver content.

The underlying bullion value changes as the market price of silver moves. However, buyers may pay more than the value of the contained metal because of fabrication costs, dealer premiums, limited mintages and collector demand.

Older or difficult-to-find releases can sometimes trade at premiums unrelated to their original issue price.

For this reason, it is useful to distinguish between bullion value and numismatic or collector premium.

A coin may contain two or ten ounces of silver, but its total market price can also reflect its year, design, condition and availability.

Collectors should therefore avoid assuming that every limited-mintage coin will automatically appreciate. Precious-metal markets and collectible-coin markets can both fluctuate.

What Makes the Next Generation Series Distinctive?

Several characteristics help separate the Next Generation Series from ordinary bullion coins.

First is the mother-and-young wildlife concept. Rather than simply featuring famous Australian animals, the series creates a recurring theme centered on the next generation.

Second is the piedfort format. The unusually thick blanks give both the 2 oz and 10 oz coins a distinctive physical presence.

Third is the annual change in wildlife. A complete sequence provides a miniature survey of Australian fauna, ranging from marsupials and reptiles to birds and monotremes.

Finally, the controlled mintages introduce an element of scarcity, particularly among the 10 oz coins.

These characteristics allow the series to occupy the space between straightforward silver bullion and modern collectible coinage.

List of Australia's Perth Mint's Next Generation Series (2026 Updated)

Australia's Perth Mint Next Generation Series is one of the most collectible modern silver bullion coin collections, admired for its premium 99.99% pure silver, innovative 2 oz piedfort strike, and beautifully detailed designs featuring Australian wildlife alongside their young. Introduced in 2018, the series combines investment-grade silver with exceptional numismatic artistry, making it popular among both bullion investors and coin collectors. Each annual release showcases a different native species, including the Koala, Crocodile, Kookaburra, Platypus, Dingo, Kangaroo, and Emu, while limited mintages and advanced security features add to the collection's long-term appeal. By 2026, early issues have become increasingly scarce, resulting in higher collector premiums, especially for coins preserved in original mint capsules or certified in MS70 condition. Strong global demand, rising silver prices, and the popularity of Perth Mint bullion products continue to support the market value of this distinctive wildlife-themed series.

Australia's Perth Mint Next Generation Series Value Table (2026 Updated)

Year-Wise Perth Mint Next Generation Series Price Guide (2026)

Certified Coin Value Guide (2026)

Factors Affecting Market Value

The Australia's Perth Mint Next Generation Series remains one of the strongest-performing modern Australian silver bullion collections in 2026. First-year releases such as the 2018 Koala & Joey continue to attract the highest premiums due to their historical significance and lower availability, while newer issues including the 2024 Emu & Chicks maintain strong collector demand. With its unique piedfort format, exceptional silver purity, annual wildlife themes, and limited mintages, the Next Generation Series continues to be an outstanding choice for both long-term investors and numismatic collectors seeking premium Australian bullion coins.

Series Overview

The Next Generation Series is characterized by its:​

• Design Theme: Each coin features a mother and her offspring from iconic Australian species.​

• Piedfort Format: Coins are struck in a piedfort style, meaning they are thicker than standard coins, providing a substantial feel and allowing for intricate design details.​

• High Purity: Struck from 99.99% pure silver, ensuring both beauty and value.​

• Limited Mintage: Each release has a capped production, enhancing its collectibility.​

Coin Specifications

Design Highlights

Each coin in the series features:​

• Reverse Side: Depicts a mother and baby of a specific Australian species, set against a backdrop of native flora.​

• Obverse Side: Features the effigy of the reigning monarch, with inscriptions denoting the coin's weight, purity, and denomination.​

• Security Features: Incorporates micro-laser engraved letters for authentication, enhancing the coin's security against counterfeiting.​

Notable Releases

1. 2018 – Koala: The inaugural coin showcases a mother koala with her joey nestled among eucalyptus branches, symbolizing the serenity of Australia's forests.​

2. 2019 – Crocodile: Depicts a mother crocodile with her hatchlings, highlighting the fierce protectiveness of this ancient reptile.​

3. 2020 – Kookaburra: Features the iconic laughing kookaburra with its chick, representing joy and the Australian bush's vibrant life.​

4. 2021 – Platypus: Illustrates a mother platypus swimming alongside her young, emphasizing the uniqueness of this egg-laying mammal.​

5. 2022 – Dingo: Shows a dingo mother with her pup, capturing the essence of Australia's wild canines.​

6. 2023 – Kangaroo: Presents a kangaroo mother with her joey, symbolizing Australia's most recognized marsupial.​

7. 2024 – Emu: Depicts an adult emu with three chicks, celebrating Australia's largest bird and its nurturing nature.​

Collectibility and Investment Appeal

The Next Generation Series appeals to both collectors and investors due to:​

• Limited Mintage: Enhances rarity and potential value appreciation over time.​

• High Purity Silver: Offers intrinsic value and aligns with investment-grade bullion standards.​

• Artistic Merit: The detailed designs and high-quality strikes make these coins desirable for display and collection.​

• Cultural Significance: Each coin tells a story of Australia's unique wildlife, adding educational and emotional value.​

Packaging and Presentation

Coins are typically available in:​

• Individual Capsules: Protects the coin and allows for easy display.​

• Tubes: For bulk purchases, coins are packaged in tubes (e.g., 10 coins per tube for 2 oz coins).​

• Monster Boxes: Larger quantities are housed in boxes containing multiple tubes, ideal for investors.​

List of Frequently Asked Questions About Perth Mint’s Next Generation Series: Celebrating Australia’s Iconic Wildlife in Silver

Perth Mint’s Next Generation Series is one of Australia’s most distinctive silver coin programs, celebrating the bond between parent animals and their young across Australia’s unique wildlife. Combining .9999 fine silver, limited mintages, and emotive designs, the series appeals strongly to both collectors and investors seeking high-quality themed bullion. This comprehensive FAQ guide answers the most common questions about Perth Mint’s Next Generation Series, covering history, designs, collectability, value, and investment potential.

1. What Is Perth Mint’s Next Generation Series?

Perth Mint’s Next Generation Series is an official Australian legal tender silver coin series featuring iconic Australian animals depicted with their offspring. The series highlights themes of family, protection, and continuity in nature, making it highly appealing to collectors and gift buyers.

2. When Was the Next Generation Series Introduced?

The Next Generation Series was introduced in the mid-2010s as part of Perth Mint’s wildlife-themed bullion and collector programs. Since then, it has grown into a recognisable and sought-after series.

3. Are Next Generation Coins Legal Tender in Australia?

Yes. All Next Generation Series coins are legal tender of Australia, backed by the Australian Government and produced by The Perth Mint.

4. What Metals Are Used in the Next Generation Series?

The series is primarily struck in:

• .9999 fine silver

Some releases may also feature special finishes or packaging, but silver remains the core metal.

5. What Is the Standard Weight of Next Generation Silver Coins?

Most Next Generation coins are minted as:

• 1 oz (31.103 g) silver coins

Occasionally, larger formats or special editions may be released.

6. What Animals Are Featured in the Next Generation Series?

The series showcases iconic Australian wildlife, often including:

• Kangaroo and joey

• Koala and joey

• Kookaburra and chick

• Platypus and young

Each design focuses on the relationship between parent and offspring.

7. What Makes the Next Generation Series Unique?

Key distinguishing features include:

• Emotional parent-and-young wildlife theme

• Limited annual mintages

• High-purity silver

• Premium Perth Mint craftsmanship

This combination makes the series stand out among bullion coins.

8. Who Appears on the Obverse of Next Generation Coins?

Depending on the year of issue, the obverse features:

• Queen Elizabeth II (earlier releases)

• King Charles III (recent releases)

This transition adds historical significance to the series.

9. What Is the Purity of Next Generation Silver Coins?

All standard Next Generation coins are struck in .9999 fine silver, meeting global investment-grade bullion standards.

10. What Is the Face Value of Next Generation Coins?

Most 1 oz silver coins in the series carry a face value of AUD $1. This is symbolic and far below their bullion and collector value.

11. Are Next Generation Coins Considered Bullion or Collectible Coins?

They are best described as hybrid coins, offering:

• Bullion value from silver content

• Numismatic value from limited mintage and design

This dual appeal attracts a wide range of buyers.

12. Are Perth Mint Next Generation Coins a Good Investment?

Yes, they can be a strong long-term investment, particularly for collectors. Value drivers include:

• Limited mintage

• Strong wildlife theme

• Perth Mint reputation

• Precious metal content

13. Do Next Generation Coins Increase in Value Over Time?

Many past releases have shown appreciation due to:

• Collector demand

• Low availability in secondary markets

• Rising silver prices

However, appreciation is not guaranteed and depends on market conditions.

14. What Are the Mintage Limits for Next Generation Coins?

The Next Generation Series typically features strict mintage caps, often lower than standard bullion coins, enhancing scarcity and desirability.

15. Are Proof Versions Available in the Next Generation Series?

Most Next Generation releases are struck in brilliant uncirculated (BU) format. Some special editions may include proof-like finishes.

16. Are Next Generation Coins GST-Free in Australia?

As investment-grade silver, these coins are generally GST-free when sold according to Australian bullion tax rules.

17. Where Can You Buy Perth Mint Next Generation Coins?

They are available from:

• The Perth Mint

• Authorised bullion dealers

• Coin shops

• Online bullion marketplaces

• Secondary market auctions

Buying early often secures better pricing.

18. How Can You Verify the Authenticity of Next Generation Coins?

Authentic coins feature:

• Accurate weight and dimensions

• High-definition design detail

• Perth Mint branding

• Official packaging

Professional authentication services are also available.

19. How Should Next Generation Silver Coins Be Stored?

Recommended storage methods include:

• Original Perth Mint capsules

• Climate-controlled environments

• Secure safes or vault storage

• Minimal handling

Proper storage preserves both bullion and collector value.

20. Should Next Generation Coins Be Cleaned?

No. Cleaning:

• Damages surfaces

• Reduces collector appeal

• Can lower resale value

Natural toning is generally acceptable.

21. Are Next Generation Coins Suitable for Beginners?

Yes. They are ideal for beginners due to:

• 1 oz silver format

• Recognisable wildlife themes

• Strong resale market

• Educational and gift appeal

22. Are Next Generation Coins Suitable for Gifting?

Absolutely. Their family-themed designs make them popular for:

• Birthdays

• Anniversaries

• Birth or christening gifts

• Milestone celebrations

23. How Liquid Are Next Generation Coins?

Liquidity is strong, especially for popular designs. Dealers and collectors readily trade them, though premiums may vary.

24. Are Coloured Next Generation Coins Available?

Some releases may include:

• Coloured elements

• Special finishes

These versions are more collectible and usually carry higher premiums.

25. How Do Next Generation Coins Compare to Kangaroo Silver Coins?

Key differences include:

• Next Generation: Limited mintage, themed, higher premiums

• Kangaroo: Unlimited mintage, bullion-focused, lower premiums

Both serve different investment goals.

26. Are Next Generation Coins Better Than Generic Silver Rounds?

They often outperform generic rounds due to:

• Government backing

• Limited mintage

• Strong collector demand

• Recognisable designs

27. What Are the Risks of Investing in Next Generation Coins?

Risks include:

• Precious metal price volatility

• Collector demand fluctuations

• Improper storage

Balanced portfolios reduce risk.

28. Can Next Generation Coins Be Held in SMSFs?

Yes, provided storage, valuation, and audit requirements for self-managed super funds are met.

29. Can Next Generation Coins Be Passed Down as Heirlooms?

Yes. Their durable silver content, emotional themes, and recognisable designs make them ideal heirloom collectibles.

30. What Is the Long-Term Outlook for the Next Generation Series?

The outlook remains positive due to:

• Strong global interest in wildlife-themed coins

• Perth Mint’s consistent quality

• Limited mintages

• Emotional storytelling through design

Conclusion

Perth Mint’s Next Generation Series beautifully combines Australia’s unique wildlife with high-purity silver and meaningful design. With its limited mintages, legal tender status, and strong collector appeal, the series offers both emotional value and investment potential. Whether you are a seasoned collector, a silver investor, or searching for a meaningful gift, the Next Generation Series stands out as one of Perth Mint’s most engaging and enduring coin programs.

The Perth Mint's Next Generation Series stands as a testament to Australia's rich wildlife and the mint's commitment to excellence. Whether you're a seasoned collector, an investor, or someone who appreciates fine artistry, this series offers something of value. Its combination of aesthetic appeal, cultural significance, and investment potential makes it a standout in the world of numismatics.​

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