The Polar Bear is easily recognised by its distinctive shape, from its round posterior to its pointed black nose. Although the bear’s fur looks white, each hair shaft is actually pigment-free and transparent with a hollow core that scatters and reflects visible light, much like what happens with ice and snow. This sea bear evolved about 200,000 years ago from its brown bear ancestors and is superbly adapted for survival in the Arctic. Five nations have Polar Bear populations including the United States (Alaska), Canada, Russia, Greenland, and Norway.
The main threat to the Polar Bear is the loss of habitat caused by ice loss as a result of climate change. As the Arctic continues to warm, two-thirds of the world's Polar Bears could disappear by mid-century. Other threats include pollution, poaching, industrial developments and unregulated hunting.
In May 2008, the United States Department of the Interior listed the Polar Bear as a Threatened Species under the Endangered Species Act, while Canada and Russia list the Polar Bear as a Species of Concern.
99.9% Pure Silver
The coin is struck by The Perth Mint on behalf of Coin Club Australia from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality.
Polar Bear Reverse Design
The coin’s reverse depicts two adult Polar Bears and a cub, in colour, against an Arctic landscape. The lower reverse comprises a struck design showing a pair of supporting hands, and the inscription WILDLIFE IN NEED – POLAR BEAR.
Issued as Legal Tender
Issued as legal tender under the authority of the Government of Tuvalu, the coin’s obverse depicts the Ian-Rank Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the 2012 year-date.
Extremely Limited Mintage
No more than 5,000 of these coins will be released.
Numbered Certificate of Authenticity
The coin is issued with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
Presentation Packaging
Each coin is housed in a display case with illustrated
Technical specifications
| Silver Content (Troy oz) | 1 |
| Monetary Denomination (TVD) | 1 |
| Fineness (% purity) | 99.9 |
| Minimum Gross Weight (g) | 31.135 |
| Maximum Diameter (mm) | 40.60 |
| Maximum Thickness (mm) | 4.00 |
2012 WILDLIFE IN NEED - POLAR BEAR 1OZ SILVER PROOF COIN Perth Mint
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