Austria, 3 Euro, 2024, Luminous Marine Life – Hawaiian Bobtail Squid, KM 3381, Colour, UNC Condition.

Commemorative issue: Luminous Marine Life – Hawaiian Bobtail Squid

Located in the cephalopod’s mantle, the luminescent organ of the Hawaiian bobtail squid is powered by bioluminescent bacteria, with which the squid has an extraordinary partnership of convenience. The bacteria produce light and in return the squid provides them with shelter and food in the form of a sugar-amino acid solution. When the bacteria begin to glow, the silhouette of the squid disappears in the light coming from above, and when viewed from below, it can no longer be distinguished from the glittering surface of the water, for example, when lit by moonlight.

Between five and ten centimetres in length, the Hawaiian bobtail squid is a tiny hunter that stalks its prey at night in shallow coastal waters. Although it has a unique luminescent organ, unlike other squid species, the squid cannot change colour at will, so it spends the day buried in the sand, only coming out at night to hunt for food. But when ultraviolet light is shone on the eighth coin in the Luminous Marine Life series, its colour changes from light brown and black to red or blue.

Metal: Copper-Nickel

Weight: 16 grams

Diameter: 34 mm

Stock image.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of marine life with the Austria 3 Euro 2024 commemorative coin featuring the mesmerizing Hawaiian Bobtail Squid. Struck in Copper-Nickel, this luminous coin showcases the symbiotic relationship between the squid and bioluminescent bacteria, making it a unique addition to any collection. At 16 grams and 34 mm in diameter, this coin beautifully captures the essence of the tiny hunter that disappears in the moonlit waters. The eighth coin in the Luminous Marine Life series, this coin transforms under ultraviolet light, adding an element of surprise and wonder. A stock image captures the squid’s elusive beauty, making this coin a must-have for collectors fascinated by the mysteries of the deep sea.