Specifications
| Metal | Silver |
| Purity | .999 Fine (99.9% pure) |
| Weight | 1 Troy Ounce (31.103 grams) |
| Form Factor | Coin |
| Face Value | 1.50 Euros |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Thickness | 3.2 mm |
| Year of Issue | 2008 |
Design & Liquidity
The esteemed design of the Silver Philharmonic coin, officially known as the Vienna Philharmonic (Wiener Philharmoniker), was created by Thomas Pesendorfer, the Chief Engraver of the Austrian Mint. The design was initially conceived in 1989 for the gold Philharmonic series, with the silver version adopting this identical, unchanging imagery upon its introduction in 2008. The obverse of the coin prominently features the Great Organ of the Golden Hall in Vienna's Musikverein, the renowned concert hall home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. This side is also inscribed with "REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH" (Republic of Austria), the year, weight, and face value. The reverse side showcases an elegant arrangement of orchestral instruments, including a cello, violins, a harp, a Vienna horn, and a bassoon, along with the inscription "WIENER PHILHARMONIKER". Recognized globally, the Silver Philharmonic enjoys high secondary market liquidity, making it one of the most popular 1-ounce silver bullion coins in Europe and worldwide, easily traded by dealers and private buyers alike. Its consistent design since inception contributes to its instant recognition and strong demand in the global bullion market.
About the Mint
The Austrian Mint, known as Münze Österreich in its native language, is a globally respected institution with a rich heritage dating back to 1194. With over 800 years of continuous operation, it stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious mints worldwide. The mint's origins are deeply rooted in a fascinating historical event: it was founded by Duke Leopold V of Austria using part of the significant silver ransom paid for the release of King Richard the Lionheart in 1194. Today, the Vienna Philharmonic bullion coin series, available in gold, silver, and platinum, is undoubtedly the Austrian Mint's most recognized and flagship product. An interesting historical note is the mint's production of the Maria Theresa Thaler, first struck in 1741, which became one of the most widely circulated silver coins globally, with restrikes of the 1780 version still produced to this day. Since 1989, the Austrian Mint has operated as a public company, wholly owned by the Austrian National Bank, and holds the unique distinction of producing the only European bullion coins denominated in Euros.
