The Nutcracker ballet is a cherished Christmas classic, and in 2024, the Perth Mint has honored this timeless tale with an exquisite 2-ounce silver Nutcracker coin. Designed to celebrate the holiday season, this coin blends artistry, tradition, and craftsmanship into a piece of numismatic excellence.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mint | Perth Mint |
| Material | Antiqued .9999 fine silver |
| Weight | 62.213 grams (2 ounces) |
| Diameter | 45.6 millimeters |
| Mintage Limit | 2,500 pieces |
| Price | $289 AUD (as of Oct. 17, 2024) |
| Design | Nutcracker, Mouse King, young girl, fairies, stars |
| Gold-Plated Feature | .999 fine gold-plated nutcracker figurine |
| Obverse | Effigy of King Charles III, star patterns |
| Privy Mark | ‘P125’ mark celebrating Perth Mint’s 125th anniversary |
The Story Behind The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker is a magical Christmas Eve tale that has captivated audiences for generations. It tells the story of a young girl who adores her nutcracker doll. Staying awake to admire her favorite gift, she becomes part of a wondrous adventure, witnessing a battle between toy soldiers and mischievous mice. Displaying courage, she saves her Nutcracker from the sinister Mouse King.
Adapted into a ballet by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker is a beloved performance worldwide during the festive season, blending music, dance, and holiday spirit.
The 2024 Nutcracker Coin: Art Meets Holiday Tradition
A Design Worth Admiring
Created by designer Jennifer McKenna, the reverse side of the 2024 coin showcases characters and symbols from The Nutcracker story. The design includes:
- The Nutcracker, the heroic figure of the tale.
- The Mouse King, the Nutcracker’s adversary.
- A young girl surrounded by Christmas gifts.
- Fairies, Christmas trees, and golden stars.
- The Perth Mint’s 125th-anniversary ‘P125’ privy mark.
At the heart of the coin is a dazzling nutcracker figurine, intricately plated with .999 fine gold. This traditional symbol of good luck is believed to ward off evil spirits, adding a touch of charm to the piece.
Specifications and Features
The obverse features an effigy of King Charles III, crafted by Dan Thorne, along with decorative stars encircling the gold-plated nutcracker insert. Key details of the coin include:
- Material: Antiqued .9999 fine silver
- Weight: 62.213 grams (2 ounces)
- Diameter: 45.6 millimeters
- Mintage: Limited to 2,500 pieces
- Price: $289 AUD as of Oct. 17
Why This Coin Is a Collector’s Dream
The 2024 Nutcracker coin is more than a festive collectible; it’s a symbol of artistry and tradition. Its limited mintage and stunning design make it a sought-after item for numismatists and fans of The Nutcracker alike. With its gold-plated centerpiece and nostalgic fairy-tale elements, this coin is a perfect blend of holiday cheer and craftsmanship.
More than a Coin: A Holiday Keepsake
Whether as a gift or part of a treasured collection, the 2024 Nutcracker coin embodies the spirit of Christmas. Its detailed artwork and connection to a beloved holiday tale make it an exceptional keepsake for years to come.
Conclusion
The 2024 Nutcracker Coin from the Perth Mint is a stunning tribute to the beloved Christmas classic and a remarkable collector’s item. With its intricate design, featuring characters from the enchanting Nutcracker story, and its gold-plated Nutcracker figurine at the center, this coin beautifully captures the magic and joy of the holiday season.
As a limited-edition piece with only 2,500 coins available, it offers a unique opportunity for collectors and fans of the Nutcracker ballet to own a tangible symbol of Christmas tradition. The Perth Mint has truly combined artistry, history, and festive spirit in this beautiful coin, making it not just a collectible, but also a lasting keepsake for years to come. Whether as a gift, a display piece, or a cherished addition to a collection, the 2024 Nutcracker Coin is sure to bring holiday cheer to any home.
FAQs
1. What is the 2024 Nutcracker Coin made of?
The coin is made of antiqued .9999 fine silver and features a .999 fine gold-plated nutcracker figurine in the center.
2. How much does the 2024 Nutcracker Coin weigh?
The coin weighs 62.213 grams, which is equivalent to 2 ounces.
3. What is the mintage limit for this coin?
The 2024 Nutcracker Coin has a limited mintage of just 2,500 pieces, making it a rare collector’s item.
4. What design features are on the coin?
The reverse side of the coin showcases characters from The Nutcracker story, including the Nutcracker, the Mouse King, and a young girl, along with fairies, stars, and Christmas trees. The coin also includes a gold-plated Nutcracker figurine in the center.
5. What does the ‘P125’ privy mark on the coin represent?
The ‘P125’ privy mark commemorates the 125th anniversary of the Perth Mint, adding a special touch to the design.