Monday, January 14, 2008

Australia Mints Youth Day Coins

PERTH, Australia, JAN. 9, 2008 (Zenit.org).- Legal tender in Australia now includes two coins bearing the face of Benedict XVI -- commemorative gold and silver coins marking the July World Youth Day event.Sydney will host the 23rd World Youth Day from July 15 to July 20.
The Perth Mint last week released the coins commemorating the event.The 1-ounce gold proof coin and 1-ounce silver proof coin depict the Pope and the World Youth Day logo and inscription. The design appears in color on the silver coin.WYD'08 Chief Operating Officer Danny Casey said he believes the limited mintage coins will be popular among both Australians and international visitors. With a mintage limited to no more than 1,000 gold coins and 25,000 silver coins, they are expected to be sold out quickly.


Recommended retail price for the 1-ounce gold proof coin is $1,750 Australian dollars (US$1,545). The silver coin is priced at $89.50 Australian dollars (US$79).

"For many pilgrims and proud Australian hosts, WYD08 will be one of the most significant events in their lives," Casey said. Both commemorative coins are available worldwide and issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965. They can be purchased from the Perth Mint Web site.

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