It is hard to believe that a major mint would be worried about "chatter" of it having a shortage of physical silver. But everything is OK though because..."We believe other mints worldwide face the same challenges, with some now refusing to take new orders or reducing the number of customers they are prepared to supply."

Lotsa smoke in Australia - VHF

-

Mint Gears For All Out Production Of 1oz And 1 Kilo Silver Bullion Coins

Ron Currie

May 17, 2011

BULLION BARS AND COINS

The Perth Mint has further streamlined its silver bullion coin range in order to focus production on 1oz and 1 kilo sizes.

The decision to temporarily suspend 2oz and 1/2oz sizes (10oz and 5oz coins are already suspended), frees up additional manufacturing capacity so that we are in the best position to satisfy soaring demand for our two most popular coin sizes.

Koala Back Orders Accepted

We’re currently making 1oz and 1 kilo Australian Koala silver bullion coins. If and whenever Koalas are temporarily unavailable on the website, you can place orders at current prices for later delivery by calling the Perth Mint Bullionline on 1300 201 112.

Kilo Kookaburra and Rabbit Coins Available Soon

When the full commissioning of our new 1000-tonne coin press is complete, we will re-commence production of 1 kilo Kookaburra and Lunar Rabbit silver bullion coins for expected availability in late June/early July. As previously announced, 1oz Kookaburra and Lunar Rabbits are sold out.

High Worldwide Demand

This unprecedented call has been forced upon us by the very high investment demand following silver’s recent price volatility. We believe other mints worldwide face the same challenges, with some now refusing to take new orders or reducing the number of customers they are prepared to supply.

The measures we’ve taken are based on our frank assessment of what is best and fairest for all Perth Mint customers. And contrary to inevitable speculation and erroneous online “chatter”, The Perth Mint does not face any shortage of silver. These moves are designed to increase our silver coin output, albeit in only two sizes.