Specifications
| Metal | Silver |
| Purity | .999 Fine |
| Weight | 1 Troy Ounce |
| Form Factor | Coin |
| Year of Issue | 2014 |
| Face Value | 1.50 Euro |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Thickness | 3.2 mm |
Design & Liquidity
The iconic design of the Austrian Philharmonic coin was created by Thomas Pesendorfer, the Chief Engraver of the Austrian Mint. The design was originally conceived in 1989 for the gold Philharmonic series, with the silver version, featuring the same acclaimed artwork, debuting in 2008. [2, 8, 12, 21, 23]
The obverse of the 2014 Austrian Silver Philharmonic features a meticulously detailed depiction of the Great Organ housed within the Golden Hall of Vienna's Musikverein concert hall. [1, 4, 7] This side is inscribed with "REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH" (Republic of Austria) across the top, and below the organ, the coin's specifications: "1 UNZE FEINSILBER" (1 ounce fine silver), the year "2014", and its face value "1,50 EURO". [1, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11]
The reverse showcases a harmonious collection of orchestral instruments, representing the world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. [1, 4, 5] Prominently displayed in the center is a cello, flanked by four violins, with a French horn, bassoon, and harp arranged behind them. [1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 13] The inscription "WIENER PHILHARMONIKER" (Vienna Philharmonic) gracefully curves along the top rim, with the word "SILBER" (Silver) positioned just below it, above the instruments. [1, 2, 7]
These coins are highly regarded in the global precious metals market for their exceptional liquidity and widespread recognition. The Austrian Silver Philharmonic is celebrated as one of the world's best-selling bullion coins and is particularly popular in Europe. [1, 2, 4, 7, 9, 18, 24] Its consistent design across years and its legal tender status, backed by the Austrian government and denominated in Euros, contribute significantly to its marketability and appeal to investors and collectors alike. [1, 4, 7, 8, 9, 11, 23, 26]
About the Mint
The Austrian Mint, known natively as Münze Österreich, boasts a rich and storied history spanning over 800 years, with its origins tracing back to 1194. [3, 6, 7, 10, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19] Its foundation is famously linked to a substantial ransom payment of silver made by King Richard the Lionheart to Duke Leopold V. [6, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20] Since 1989, the Mint has operated as a public limited company, a proud subsidiary of the Austrian National Bank. [6, 8, 10, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20]
The Mint is renowned for its commitment to precision and combines centuries-old craftsmanship with state-of-the-art production technology. [17, 28, 29] Its flagship product, the Vienna Philharmonic bullion coin, available in gold, silver, and platinum, is celebrated worldwide and stands as the only bullion coin denominated in Euros. [3, 18, 27, 28, 31] The Austrian Mint is dedicated to sustainable manufacturing and the responsible use of resources, consistently demonstrating reliability and consistent quality in its production, irrespective of external challenges. [28] Located in the heart of Vienna, the Mint is a symbol of trust and stability in the precious metals industry. [28]
