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2020P 1.5oz Australia S$2 Striped Marlin MS 70/10 Silver Coin

The 2020P 1.5oz Australia S$2 Striped Marlin MS 70/10 represents an exceptional addition to any serious numismatic collection. This remarkable silver coin showcases the Australian Royal Mint's commitment to producing world-class bullion and collectible pieces that combine artistic excellence with investment-grade silver content. With its pristine MS 70/10 grading, this coin represents the pinnacle of coin quality and preservation, making it highly sought after by both collectors and investors alike.

Coin Specifications

• Year of Issue: 2020
• Mint Mark: P (Perth Mint)
• Denomination: $2 Australian Dollars
• Weight: 1.5 troy ounces (46.635 grams)
• Metal Composition: .999 Fine Silver
• Diameter: 36.60mm
• Design: Striped Marlin
• Certification Grade: MS 70/10
• Certification Body: NGC certified
• Edge: Reeded
• Mintage: Limited edition

About the MS 70/10 Grade

The MS 70/10 grading designation indicates an exceptional level of quality and preservation that collectors prize above all others. The "MS 70" refers to the coin's grade on the Sheldon Scale, where 70 represents a perfect uncirculated specimen with absolutely no visible wear or imperfections to the naked eye. The "/10" represents the eye appeal rating, with 10 being the highest possible designation. This dual grading system ensures that you are acquiring a coin that not only meets the highest technical standards but also possesses outstanding aesthetic qualities that make it visually stunning.

The Striped Marlin Design

The 2020P $2 Striped Marlin coin features a captivating design that celebrates one of Australia's most iconic and powerful marine creatures. The striped marlin, known scientifically as Kajikia audax, is a magnificent game fish that inhabits the waters around Australia. The design captures the dynamic energy and grace of this remarkable fish with detailed relief work that brings the creature to life on the surface of the coin.

The reverse of the coin displays an expertly rendered image of the striped marlin in mid-leap, showcasing the fish's distinctive vertical stripes and powerful musculature. This artistic representation demonstrates the exceptional skill of the Royal Australian Mint's engravers and designers, who have worked to create a piece that is both technically impressive and visually compelling.

The Obverse and Inscription Details

The obverse side of the coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, as is standard for Australian legal tender coins produced during her reign. Surrounding the portrait are inscriptions identifying the monarch and the coin's specifications. The reverse features the marlin design alongside the denomination of $2 and the year of issue, 2020. The "P" mint mark indicates that this coin was produced at the Perth Mint, Australia's premier precious metals facility.

Historical Context of the 2020 Release

The 2020 Australian $2 Striped Marlin coin was released as part of the Royal Australian Mint's ongoing commitment to producing themed bullion and collectible coins that celebrate Australia's unique wildlife and natural heritage. 2020 was a significant year for the mint, as it continued its tradition of releasing high-quality silver coins featuring native and regional fauna.

This particular release came during a time of heightened interest in precious metals investment, as global economic conditions led many collectors and investors to seek out quality bullion coins. The combination of strong silver content, limited mintage, and exceptional artistry made this 2020 release particularly attractive to the numismatic community.

Why Invest in the 2020P Striped Marlin?

There are numerous compelling reasons to add the 2020P 1.5oz Australia $2 Striped Marlin MS 70/10 to your collection:

• Pure Silver Content: With 1.5 troy ounces of .999 fine silver, this coin possesses significant intrinsic precious metal value that serves as a hedge against economic uncertainty.
• Limited Mintage: As a limited-edition release, this coin has restricted availability, which supports long-term value appreciation and collector demand.
• Perfect Grading: The MS 70/10 certification ensures that you are acquiring a coin in absolutely pristine condition with no imperfections visible to the naked eye.
• Artistic Excellence: The stunning striped marlin design represents the highest standards of numismatic art and craftsmanship.
• Australian Pedigree: Produced by the prestigious Royal Australian Mint, this coin carries the authority and reputation of one of the world's leading mint facilities.
• Investment Potential: The combination of silver content, rarity, and exceptional condition makes this coin suitable for both collection and investment purposes.
• Legal Tender Status: As an official $2 Australian coin, this piece has legal tender status in Australia, adding an additional layer of legitimacy and value.

Collecting Australian Wildlife Coins

The 2020P Striped Marlin is part of a broader tradition of Australian wildlife-themed coins that have captured the imagination of collectors around the world. The Royal Australian Mint has long recognized the appeal of featuring the nation's unique fauna on its coinage, and these coins have become increasingly popular among collectors who appreciate both the artistic merit and the connection to Australia's natural heritage.

Collectors often seek to acquire complete sets or series of wildlife coins, and the striped marlin design makes this 2020 release a valuable component of any comprehensive Australian wildlife collection. The dynamic imagery and high relief work set this coin apart from many other wildlife-themed releases.

Preservation and Care

As an MS 70/10 certified coin in pristine condition, the 2020P Striped Marlin should be handled and stored with the utmost care to maintain its exceptional grade and eye appeal. The coin should be kept in its certified holder to protect it from environmental exposure and potential damage. Avoid direct contact with bare hands, as fingerprints and oils can potentially affect the coin's surface and appearance over time.

The Perth Mint Connection

The Perth Mint, established in 1899, is one of the world's most respected precious metals facilities. Known for its exacting standards and innovative designs, the Perth Mint has produced some of the most sought-after bullion coins in the world. The "P" mint mark on this 2020 release signifies that it was produced at this premier facility, a mark of quality and authenticity that collectors recognize and value.

Investment and Collectibility

The 2020P 1.5oz Australia $2 Striped Marlin MS 70/10 appeals to a diverse range of collectors and investors. Silver bullion investors appreciate the .999 fine silver content and the ease with which precious metals can be bought and sold. Numismatic collectors value the artistry, historical significance, and scarcity of the release. The perfect MS 70/10 grading elevates this coin above typical bullion issues, placing it firmly in the realm of premium numismatic collectibles.

As precious metal prices fluctuate and economic conditions evolve, coins like this striped marlin piece tend to appreciate in both numismatic and bullion value. The limited availability combined with consistent collector demand creates favorable long-term value dynamics.

Conclusion

The 2020P 1.5oz Australia $2 Striped Marlin MS 70/10 represents an outstanding opportunity to acquire a world-class silver coin that excels in every important dimension: purity, artistry, condition, and investment potential. Whether you are a seasoned numismatic collector, a precious metals investor, or someone new to the world of bullion coins, this 2020 release from the Perth Mint deserves serious consideration. Its combination of .999 fine silver content, exceptional artistic design, perfect MS 70/10 certification, and Australian heritage make it a piece that will enhance any collection and potentially appreciate in value over time.