Australia Post and the Perth Mint are releasing limited-edition stamps and a silver coin in the lead-up to the 2023 Total Solar Eclipse on 20 April.
The eclipse is to occur at around 11.27am on 20 April when the shadow of the Moon will first touch the Australian continent as it begins its brief journey over the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo region.
Minister for State Development, Roger Cook said that while the eclipse itself would last only about 62 seconds as the Moon passed between the Sun and Earth in perfect alignment, the special stamps and the coin would provide a lasting memory.
Australia Post’s Solar Eclipses stamp issue features three $1.20 postage stamps, postcards and a medallion cover.
The stamps and postcards depict three different types of solar eclipse — an annular solar eclipse, a total solar eclipse and a partial solar eclipse, while the medallion cover showcases the total and annular phases.
The collectables are numbered and there will be a limited amount available.
Merchandise is also available with the Exmouth Chamber of Commerce and Industry with items featuring artwork by Payungu (Baiyungu) Elder, Rachael Cooyou to commemorate the event.
Her work captures a dreamtime story and is called Warnanmankura Kuru-nga (Rainbow serpent looking) Wirlarra Mardama-nma Jirndal (Moon covering Sun). It has a sustainable focus that pays respect to the Traditional Owners of the land.
All profits from this initiative will be put back into local community initiatives and support local small businesses.
Mr Cook said the collectables commemorated a truly unique event occurring in the skies above a truly unique destination “the stunning, World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Coast near Exmouth”.
