Coming as a bit of a surprise last year, the Australian Swan bullion coin quickly became a must-have item, showing some healthy appreciation in short order. A small range comprising one-ounce variants in gold and silver, it sold out in pretty short order. Now it’s time for the second annual issue and it’s an all new design for 2018, although no changes to the range on offer.

The 2017 issue was a classic piece of work depicting a swan in a simple sideview pose. Sitting inside an inscription-filled border, it was an attractive coin and this years is no different. Adding a cygnet to the mix, the image eschews the profile look for a more natural view of the birds. The one element that has carried through is the rippling water. All in all, a fine piece. The obverse of course is the usual simple effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank Broadley.

Mintages remain low. The silver bullion coin tops out at just 25,000 pieces and the gold at 5,000. Both should have little trouble selling out. A proof version of the silver is also out in April and looks remarkably similar, although it ditches the reverse-proof look for one with a standard proof background. It comes nicely boxed and with a certificate of authenticity. The bullion versions do not, of course. They can be purchased inrolls of 20, although picking up singles is easy enough.

At present we’ve only seen the bullion coins at APMEX, but the proof is also available directly from the mint or from numerous dealers. A fine follow up and a series worth following. The bullion coins should start to ship from next month.