When you think about coins, you might imagine small change in your pocket. But in the world of collectors, some coins are so huge and valuable that they’re almost unbelievable. One such coin is the 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo, a coin produced by the Perth Mint in 2012. This coin weighs 1,012 kilograms and is made from 99.99% pure gold. Let’s take a closer look at these enormous and valuable coins.
The Largest Coin in the World: The 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo Coin
The 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo Gold Coin holds the title for the largest coin in the world. It measures 80 centimeters in diameter and is 13 centimeters thick, making it much larger than any other coin in existence. The coin was made to showcase the Perth Mint’s capabilities and to celebrate Australia’s gold industry. It has a face value of AUD $1 million, but its true value is much higher due to the amount of gold it contains.
The coin features a kangaroo, a symbol of Australia, making it not just a large piece of currency but also an important cultural icon.
Other Giant Coins Around the World
While the 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo is the largest coin, there are other giant coins from around the world. One of these is the Big Maple Leaf, produced by the Royal Canadian Mint in 2007. It is made of 99.999% pure gold and weighs 100 kilograms. The coin also has a face value of CAD $1 million, but its true worth is much higher because of the gold content.
In 2017, the Big Maple Leaf was stolen from a Berlin museum, making headlines around the world. The coin was likely melted down for its gold, which is a huge loss both culturally and financially.
Other Impressive Giant Coins
Besides the 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo and the Big Maple Leaf, there are a few other noteworthy giant coins:
- The Platinum Jubilee Coin: Created by the Royal Mint to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s 70th anniversary, this coin weighs 15 kilograms.
- The Giant Panda Gold Coin: Produced by China in 1991, this coin weighs 10 kilograms and is highly sought after by collectors.
Though not as large as the Australian or Canadian coins, these coins are still incredibly valuable.
Largest Coins
| Coin Name | Country | Weight | Diameter | Face Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo | Australia | 1,012 kg | 80 cm | AUD $1 million |
| Big Maple Leaf | Canada | 100 kg | 50 cm | CAD $1 million |
| Giant Panda Gold Coin | China | 10 kg | N/A | 500 Yuan |
| Platinum Jubilee Coin | United Kingdom | 15 kg | N/A | £15,000 |
Conclusion
The world of coins isn’t just about small change—it’s full of rare, giant coins that are worth millions. The 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo and the Big Maple Leaf are incredible examples of numismatic craftsmanship. These massive coins aren’t just large; they hold immense value because of the gold they contain and their rarity. Whether celebrating a cultural milestone or showcasing a mint’s abilities, these coins are much more than just money—they are works of art and history.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo coin so valuable?
The coin is made of 99.99% pure gold and weighs a massive 1,012 kilograms, which makes it worth far more than its face value of AUD $1 million.
What happened to the Big Maple Leaf coin?
The Big Maple Leaf was stolen from a museum in 2017 and likely melted down for its gold.
Are there other giant coins like the 1 Tonne Australian Kangaroo?
Yes, coins like the Giant Panda Gold Coin and the Platinum Jubilee Coin are also large and valuable.