2022 1 oz Australia Silver 2022 1 oz Australia Silver RAM Wallal Centenary PP PP

Obverse: Features the Jody Clark effigy of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, depicting her crowned portrait facing right. This is a "memorial" obverse, incorporating the dates of her reign (1952-2022) to mark her passing in 2022. The inscription includes "ELIZABETH II," "AUSTRALIA," the year "2022," and the denomination, weight, and purity.

Reverse: Designed by Adam Ball, the captivating reverse illustrates the scientific significance of the Wallal expedition. It depicts the Earth, with the location of Wallal in Western Australia prominently marked, sitting within a funnel-like representation of warped space-time. This visually explains Einstein's Theory of General Relativity, where massive objects curve the fabric of space and time. The design also shows the narrow band from which the total solar eclipse could be best observed. Inscriptions include "WALLAL CENTENARY" and "AUSTRALIA TESTS EINSTEIN'S THEORY." The domed shape of the coin particularly complements this design, creating a sense of three-dimensionality.

Significance of the Wallal Expedition:

In 1922, a group of international and Australian scientists embarked on an expedition to Wallal, Western Australia, a remote location with ideal viewing conditions for a total solar eclipse on September 21. Their goal was to photograph the apparent positions of stars near the eclipsed Sun. According to Einstein's then-revolutionary Theory of General Relativity, massive objects like the Sun warp space-time, causing light from distant stars to bend as it passes by. The precise measurements taken during the Wallal eclipse provided critical empirical evidence, the first definitive photographic proof, supporting Einstein's theory, thereby cementing his place in scientific history and fundamentally changing our understanding of the universe.

Collectibility:

Historical and Scientific Significance: The coin commemorates a truly landmark event in science, making it appealing to science enthusiasts, historians, and collectors alike.

Limited Mintage: The low mintage of 5,000 coins ensures its exclusivity.

Innovative Design and Finish: The domed shape and proof quality enhance the aesthetic appeal and allow for a unique artistic representation of complex scientific concepts.

Royal Australian Mint Quality: As a product of the RAM, it boasts excellent craftsmanship and assured authenticity.

This coin is a testament to Australia's contribution to global scientific advancement and a stunning piece of numismatic art.