Manta Ray 2012
The magnificent Manta Ray is one of the largest marine species on the Great Barrier Reef.  This graceful creature can grow to 5 metres in width and weigh several hundred kilograms.  Manta Rays feed on plankton and fish larvae, filtered from the water passing through their gills as they swim.   This fish displays curiosity around humans and swims among divers, as unlike the Sting Ray, they are harmless.

Manta Ray 2012 · Elizabeth II · Australian Sea Life II · The Reef · 50 Cents· 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin

Octopus 2012
The octopus can be found all around the coast of Australia. This marine species has two eyes, four pairs of arms and unusually, three hearts; it has no internal or external skeleton, allowing it to squeeze through tight places.  The octopus is among the most intelligent of all invertebrates and if threatened will hide, flee, expel ink, or use color-changing camouflage.

Octopus 2012 · Elizabeth II · Australian Sea Life II · The Reef · 50 Cents· 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin

Surgeonfish  2012
The colourful Surgeonfish is found along the coast of Western Australia and throughout the waters of the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland to northern New South Wales. The most distinguishing characteristics of this marine species are its amazing ability to change colour and its extremely sharp scutes and fins – hence the name – Surgeonfish.

Surgeonfish  2012 · Elizabeth II · Australian Sea Life II · The Reef · 50 Cents· 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin

Starfish 2011
The second release in this series is a real stunner featuring everyone’s favourite sea creature, the starfish. The lifespan of this marine creature varies between 10 years for smaller species and up to a reported 35 years for the larger species. Beyond its distinctive shape, the starfish is famous for its ability to regenerate limbs, and in some cases, its entire body.

Starfish 2011 · Elizabeth II · Australian Sea Life II · The Reef · 50 Cents· 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin

Hawksbill Turtle 2011
Making a splash on the first of five new 1/2oz silver proof coins, the Hawksbill Turtle is a beautiful but endangered animal that lives an extraordinary life. Juveniles spend anywhere between five and ten years simply drifting around the ocean until they’re ready to settle down among Australia’s tropical reefs.

Hawksbill Turtle 2011 · Elizabeth II · Australian Sea Life II · The Reef · 50 Cents· 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin