2025 1oz Austrian Philharmonic Gold Coin

2025 1oz Austrian Philharmonic Gold Coin

First introduced in October 1989, the Vienna Philharmonic has become Europe’s most successful bullion coin. According to the World Gold Council, it was the best-selling gold coin worldwide in 1992, 1995, 1996, and 2000.

Origins
A change in Austrian law in 1988 allowed for the minting of pure gold coins for investment purposes. The Austrian Mint sought a design that would embody the nation’s identity, and after much debate, music was chosen as the theme. Representing this universal language, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra became the perfect symbol of Austria.

Design
Created by Thomas Pesendorfer, Chief Engraver of the Austrian Mint, the reverse of the coin features a collection of orchestral instruments: a cello flanked by four violins, with the Viennese horn, bassoon, and harp positioned behind.

The obverse depicts the grand pipe organ of the Golden Hall (Goldener Saal) in Vienna’s Musikverein, the concert hall known worldwide as the setting for the Philharmonic’s New Year concerts. The organ’s case was designed by architect Theophil von Hansen, while the original instrument, built by Friedrich Ladegast in 1872, has since undergone several renovations, most recently in 2011. Despite technical updates, its visual design remains unchanged.

Inscriptions
Above the organ, the inscription “Republik Oesterreich” appears in a semi-circle. Beneath the balustrade are the coin’s weight, purity, and year of issue, while its face value is displayed at the bottom. The coin’s edge is reeded.