The 2013 Polar Animals Series is the Royal Australian Mint's fourth animal series, following the popular Ocean, Land and Sea series. The Polar Series encompasses six, uncirculated coins, each depicting different animals that can be found in some of the coldest places on Earth; a Polar Bear, Rockhopper Penguin, Humpback Whale, Walrus, Weddell Seal, and Atlantic Puffin. (Royal Australian Mint, 2013)
The series was periodically released in pairs throughout the year in specially designed cards. The Weddell Seal was part of the final release, along with the Atlantic Puffin. (Royal Australian Mint, 2011) The Weddell Seal is surprisingly large, growing to be about three meters long and weighing around 400-500 kg. They permanently inhabit Antarctica and are known as the most southerly ranging mammal. (Australian Antarctic Division, 2017)
Using a colour/pad printing process, the Mint perfectly captures the characteristic deep 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.