Spiny King crab, which is the largest of the 12 species from Australia. King crabs are adorned with sharp spines to provide protection from predators, and can reach a size of up to 20cm.
 
Coin’s reverse design depicts the CSIRO research vessel (RV) Investigator and deep tow camera exploring the deep ocean.
‘C’ Mintmark
Coin’s obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II designed by Jody Clark
Australian legal tender
 
More info
The deep sea discoveries were made during several voyages along Australia's southern and eastern coastline, reaching some of Australia's deepest habitats, including the abyss.
This area is one of the least explored areas on the planet with depths up to 6 km below sea level.
Researchers used a deep tow camera developed by CSIRO to capture information on life in the deep sea.
The camera can withstand the high pressures of the deep sea environment.
The 2023 new coin collection highlights these collaborative voyages and the significant contribution they have made to better understand life in our oceans.