The Aurora Australis also known as the Southern Lights are caused by a combination of sun particles and the Earth magnetic field reacting in such a way that the incredible light display can be seen. The year 2007-2008 was celebrated as International Polar Year, paying tribute to the fascinating region of the Antarctic. This three piece series of five Dollar fine silver proof coins released progressively between 2008 and 2009 honours the unique fauna and flora of the icy continent as well as the work and research performed at various stations and vessels with a significant Australian contribution. This particular coin is the third and final in the series and the reverse features the amazing colourful lights of the Aurora Australis. The two coins that accompany it in the Australian Antarctic Territory Silver Proof Coin series celebrate the Skua bird and the Aurora Australis.
The reverse of the Australian Antarctic Territory - Polar Explorers proof coin was designed by Wojciech Pietranik and was struck into a fine silver planchet and finished to the highest possible standard by the Royal Australian Mint. The top half of the reverse features the impressive Aurora Australis, depicted using colourful hologram technology. The sillhouette of a sailing ship, penguins and a handful of people can be seen surrounded by the beautiful colours. The rest of the design takes elements from the previous coins in the series including the map of the Australian Antarctic Territory with the scientific research stations marked on it. The legend above the map reads Australian Antarctic Territory. Below it says International Polar Year 2007-2008. The primary legend on the reverse curves around the bottom edge and reads "AURORA AUSTRALIS". The obverse of this fine silver proof coin features the Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II with the surrounding legend that reads "ELIZABETH II AUSTRALIA 2009 5 DOLLARS". Each coin in the series was issued in a presentation case and packaged in an illustrated outer box.