The 2011 Air Series is The Royal Australian Mint's third series dedicated to native Australian fauna, following the popular Ocean (2006-7) and Land Series (2008-9). The Air Series encompasses six, uncirculated coins, each depicting different winged fauna on the reverse: a Crimson Rosella, Kookaburra, Major Mitchell Cockatoo, Sacred Kingfisher, Cairns Birdwing Butterfly, and Grey-Headed Flying Fox. (Royal Australian Mint, 2011)
The series was periodically released in pairs throughout the year in specially designed cards. The Crimson Rosella was the first release in March, along with the Kookaburra. (Royal Australian Mint, 2011) Found throughout Australia, the Crimson Rosella exhibits stunning crimson plumage, bright blue cheeks, and blue wings and tail feathers. Generally found in small flocks, these birds are an important and colourful component of the Australian bush.
Using a colour/pad printing process, the Mint perfectly captures the characteristic, bright colours of this species. The reverse was created by first striking the coin with a very detailed relief then applying coloured ink to further enhance the design. (Royal Australian Mint, 2008) The result is eye-catching with precise, vivid details and intense colour, paying artistic homage to this stunning species. The obverse features Ian Rank-Broadley's image of Queen Elizabeth II.