Australian Sea Life Series: The Reef
Leafy Sea Dragon 50 Cents 1/2 Ounce Proof Silver Coin
On the reverse of this coin a Leafy Sea Dragon in colour is portrayed.  The curious leaf like appendages are for camouflage and these uniquely Australian creatures are amongst the strangest found in Australian southern coastal waters.  The breeding habits are also quite unique as the female develops her eggs, the male then takes over the parenting and performs the rest of the incubation under his own tail. These coins have been hugely successful among all levels of collectors. The coin’s reverse also incorporates The Perth Mint’s historic ‘P’ mintmark.  Each coin is comes in a presentation case which comes in a colourfully illustrated box and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
Design
Coin Specifications:
Metal: Pure silver (0.999)
Finish: Proof
Denomination: 50c
Diameter: 36.6mm
Weight: 1/2 Troy oz
Issue Limit: Â 10,000
Mint: Perth Mint
History
The leafy seadragon or Glauert’s seadragon, Phycodurus eques, is a marine fish in the family Syngnathidae, which also includes the seahorses. It is the only member of the genus Phycodurus. It is found along the southern and western coasts of Australia.The name is derived from the appearance, with long leaf-like protrusions coming from all over the body. These protrusions are not used for propulsion; they serve only as camouflage. The leafy seadragon propels itself by means of a pectoral fin on the ridge of its neck and a dorsal fin on its back closer to the tail end. These small fins are almost completely transparent and difficult to see as they undulate minutely to move the creature sedately through the water, completing the illusion of floating seaweed. Popularly known as “leafies”, it is the marine emblem of the state of South Australia and a focus for local marine conservation.
*All historical information taken from Wikipedia for educational purposes only.
