The Alicanto is said to inhabit outcrops in the Atacama Desert where it devours the region’s rich deposits of gold and silver. As a result, its plumage emits golden or silvery light during the night. Prospectors yearn for the chance to track a luminous Alicanto, hoping that it will guide them to valuable deposits.

As the legend goes, success is only for those who can trail the bird without being detected. However, if the Alicanto senses it is being stalked, or if the follower is dishonest, it will cease its luminescent glow, or worse, lead the pursuer to an unfortunate end. The reverse portrays an artistic representation of the Alicanto with a glistening gold-coloured eye, and a silvery head, wings and tail tinged with gold. The design includes a gold-coloured moon amid desert mountains featuring a timeless antiqued treatment for added vintage charm.

The coin's artistry surrounds a Perspex dome containing authentic gold and silver particles suspended in clear liquid, creating a captivating spectacle of shimmering beauty. The reverse also includes a ‘P125’ mintmark signifying The Perth Mint’s 125th anniversary. The coin is housed in a specially designed case with a magnifying see-through panel. The packaging is embellished with elements of mysticism, featuring a mesmerising illustration of the magical Alicanto bird surveying the desert landscape. The release is accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity.