The History of Coins: From the Lydians to The Perth Mint's Jewelled Turtle

While the exact individual who invented coinage remains unknown, the first known use of coins is credited to the Lydians, an ancient people who lived in what is now Turkey.

The first known use of coins is credited to the Lydians, an ancient people who lived in what is now Turkey. One notable example is the Lydian Lion coin, made from silver or gold and engraved with a lion. Ancient coins like these featured recurring symbols and images to convey meanings and values important to their societies, serving as both daily currency and storehouses of wealth—many of which are now worth thousands.

Fast forward to today, and the tradition of using animal motifs on coins continues, blending artistry with symbolism. Iconic examples include the Panda in China and the Bald Eagle in the USA.

The Perth Mint’s journey with animal motifs began with the 1946 release of the shilling, featuring a merino ram designed by George Kruger Gray, an English artist renowned for his coinage designs and stained-glass windows. Over the decades, The Perth Mint has introduced iconic designs such as the kangaroo, koala, and kookaburra. These designs not only convey the broader tradition of using animals to represent interpretive symbolic meanings—like the kangaroo symbolising agility and progress, the koala representing tranquillity and unique charm, and the kookaburra embodying joy and the wild spirit—but also specifically celebrates Australia’s unique wildlife.

How does it all come together? It all starts with a talented graphic designer’s concept, which is then meticulously transferred onto a blank coin. This process is lengthy and time-consuming, requiring precision to create a flawless and durable ‘stamp’ that leaves a crisp, clear impression with every strike.

Add some precious jewels into the mix and that design and the coin’s creation becomes much, more complex.

Such is the case with the release of The Perth Mint’s latest Masterpieces range - The Jewelled Turtle – which features the finest natural diamonds and highlights the Mint’s numismatic artistry and expert craftmanship and precision.

Coin designer Natasha Muhl explains how personal and cultural connections influence her designs.

“I was raised in the Kimberley, an extraordinary natural environment offering pristine white beaches and a translucent turquoise sea,” Muhl shared.

“Six of the world’s seven species of sea turtles are found in Kimberley waters, and five of those are known to nest there so they really are special animals to me.”

Muhl’s design process for the coin involved creating a piece with an overall sense of harmony.

“I focused on thematic elements looking their finest to convey the beauty and tranquillity of the marine world while treating the sea turtle with maximum reverence.”

Ms Muhl also noted the huge team effort it takes to produce a coin such as The Jewelled Turtle.

“Through extensive collaboration with our coining division and the jewellery team, my artwork went from pen and paper to an exquisite, bejewelled piece in a gratifying and exciting process,” she said.

General Manager of Minted Products Neil Vance says it is this collaboration that results in the jewelled series being so popular with collectors.

“For seven years now we have brought together the skills and artistry of our people to create the most stunning collectables featuring Australian precious gems in Australian precious metals,” Mr Vance said.

“Our Jewelled Series is the crown jewel (pardon the pun!) of The Perth Mint’s animal-themed coins. They showcase both our coining expertise as well as some of the most beautiful diamonds from Australia.”

Established during Western Australia’s gold rush in 1899 as a branch of Britain’s Royal Mint, The Perth Mint was transferred to the Western Australian government in 1970. It is Australia’s oldest remaining operating mint and a leading gold and silver refiner and manufacturer of high-quality precious metal coins and minted products.

Visit The Perth Mint to view the stunning Jewelled Turtle and other animal-themed coins or for more information, visit the website.