From the outset, the obverse of the coin depicts the pipe organ in the Vienna Musikverein's Golden Hall.

[5] The gold Vienna Philharmonic was first offered on October 10, 1989, and was initially minted in two sizes: one-ounce and one-quarter ounce.

The popularity of the Vienna Philharmonic grew quickly: in 1990, the coin was the best selling in Europe and second in the world.

After the introduction of the euro, Philharmonics began to be minted with a face value denominated in the new currency starting in 2002.

"[3] The Vienna Philharmonic is currently the only European bullion coin with a face value in euros, although it is only legal tender in Austria.

The design for the coin was originally created by Thomas Pesendorfer to be used for the gold Vienna Philharmonic that was first issued in 1989.

The German words "REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH" (Republic of Austria), the composition and the weight are also minted on the obverse.

[4] The reverse design features an array of musical instruments, including: a harp, violins, a cello, a bassoon and a Vienna horn.

The words "WIENER PHILHARMONIKER" (Vienna Philharmonic) is also inscribed, as well as "SILBER" (Silver) or "PLATIN" (Platinum) on the respective coins.

One of the coins is displayed in the foyer of the Munich headquarters of precious metals company Pro Aurum.

Due to the limited minting, the coin was sold at a premium of approximately 10% above the gold price.