Royal Australian Mint Silver Lunar Series
Silver Lunar Series from the Royal Australian Mint
The Silver Lunar Series is a collection of bullion coins issued by the Royal Australian Mint. The series was launched in 1999 and is part of the broader Lunar Series, which is based on the Chinese zodiac calendar. Each year in the Chinese zodiac is associated with a specific animal, and the Silver Lunar Series showcases these animals on its coins.
The Royal Australian Mint produces the Silver Lunar coins in various denominations, including 1 kilogram, 10 ounces, 5 ounces, 2 ounces, 1 ounce, and fractional weights like 1/2 ounce, 1/4 ounce, 1/10 ounce, and 1/20 ounce. The coins are struck in .9999 fine silver, which means they contain 99.99% pure silver, and the prices for each are based on the current spot price of silver.
The obverse (front) of the Silver Lunar coins typically features an effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, as designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. The reverse (back) of the coins changes each year to depict the animal associated with that particular year in the Chinese zodiac. The designs are meticulously crafted and often incorporate cultural symbolism and artistic details.
The Silver Lunar Series is highly regarded by collectors and investors alike due to its limited mintage, exquisite designs, and the popularity of the Chinese zodiac theme. The coins are released in both bullion and proof versions, with the proof coins usually having a lower mintage and a more polished finish.
Since its inception, the Silver Lunar Series has covered all 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac in a 12-year cycle. The series started with the Year of the Rabbit in 1999 and continued through subsequent years, including the Year of the Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig, Rat, and Ox. Each new lunar year brings a fresh design to the silver coins, making them highly collectible.
In addition to the standard bullion and proof coins, the Royal Australian Mint has also released special editions within the Silver Lunar Series. These include colored coins, gilded coins, high-relief coins, and privy-marked coins, which often have even lower mintages and unique features.
Overall, the Silver Lunar Series from the Royal Australian Mint offers a captivating blend of precious metal investment and artistic beauty, making it a popular choice among coin collectors and investors worldwide.
History of the Royal Australian Mint
The Royal Australian Mint, the official mint of Australia, established through the Royal Australian Mint Act of 1965. Prior to that, Australia's currency was primarily produced by the Royal Mint in London and the Melbourne Mint.
Since its inception, the Royal Australian Mint has been responsible for producing circulating coins, commemorative coins, and precious metal coins. It has also played a vital role in promoting numismatics and fostering public interest in coin collecting. The mint has a strong focus on innovation and technological advancements, utilizing cutting-edge machinery and techniques to produce high-quality coins.
In addition to producing coins for Australia, the Royal Australian Mint has also supplied coins to other countries. It has collaborated with several nations, including New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, and Thailand, to produce their coinage.
Over the years, the Mint has released numerous commemorative and collector coins, often featuring important events, historical figures, iconic landmarks, and themes representing Australian culture and heritage. These coins have gained popularity both domestically and internationally among collectors and enthusiasts.
In recent years, the Royal Australian Mint has expanded its offerings to include a range of non-circulating legal tender coins, including bullion coins made from precious metals such as gold and silver. These coins, like the Silver Lunar Series we discussed earlier, have become highly sought after by investors and collectors alike.
The Royal Australian Mint continues to be a key institution in Australian numismatics, combining traditional coin-making techniques with modern technology to produce a diverse range of coins that reflect Australia's rich history and cultural identity.
