2015 $5 Australian Lighthouses - Aids to Navigation 1oz Fine Silver Coin in Card

2015 $5 Australian Lighthouse – Aids to Navigation Fine Silver Frosted Uncirculated Coin.On 1 July 1915, the Commonwealth of Australia officially accepted responsibility from the state government for all landfall and coastal lights around Australia. Today, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority is responsible for maintaining aids to navigation at some 388 sites around 37,600 kilometres of Australian coastline. These commemorative coins celebrate a century of national management of Australian lighthousesThe 37,600 kilometres of Australian coastline has countless potential hazards for ships approaching landfall, such as reefs, sandbars ad strong current. Foundering vessels and the consequent loss of life and goods created the need for manned beacons built on harbours, islands, coral reefs and beaches, to warn mariners of the dangers.Traditionally, the lamps in early lighthouses were powered by kerosene but with the introduction of solar power, all ‘off grid’ beacons were converted to electricity. Despite advancements in satellite navigation systems, these lighthouses are still operational.When the Commonwealth of Australia officially accepted responsibility for all landfall and coastal light around Australia, it comprised of 167 lighthouse, 10 of which were manned. Since 1991, the function of maritime aids to navigation has been the responsibility of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.This commemorative coin recognises those who devoted their lives to manning and maintaining lighthouses in Australia and celebrates their contribution to a century of aids to navigation. The reverse design features the essence of Australian lighthouses which is used as the enduring symbol of the seas.Available as a $1 uncirculated coin and a $5 Fine Silver Edition. The fine silver edition’s has a frosted uncirculated finish which brings to life the many hues within the design. The obverse designed features Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II effigy by Ian Rank-Broadley.Each coin is issued as Australian legal tender.Denomination :                  $5Quality :                            Frosted UncirculatedMetal :                              99.9% Pure SilverWeight :                            1ozDiameter :                         40.00 mmMintage :                           5,000Certificate of Authenticity : Royal Australian Mint Official Packaging