The Vienna Gold Philharmonic, often shortened to Philharmonic, is the official bullion coin of Austria, produced by the Austrian Mint. The coin is named for the Vienna Philharmonic orchestra, which inspired the design of both sides. It was introduced in 1989 as a one-troy ounce, gold coin with a face value of 2,000 Austrian schillings. It is generally one of the world’s best selling bullion coins. In 2002, with the adoption of the euro currency, the nominal value of the one-ounce coin was changed to 100 euros.
The gold Philharmonic has a fineness of 999.9 (often written 0.9999, also known as 24 carat or 99.99% pure). The coins are minted according to demand and production varies from year to year accordingly. From the outset, the obverse of the coin depicts the pipe organ in the Vienna Musikverein’s Golden Hall. The reverse of the coin shows instruments of the Vienna Philharmonic, including Vienna horn, bassoon, harp, and four violins centered on a cello. Both designs were produced by the chief engraver of the Austrian Mint, Thomas Pesendorfer. The Vienna Gold Philharmonic coin is very popular with investors, and may be used to fund Individual Retirement Account investments.