Australian Silver Lunar Dragon Coins

About Australian Silver Lunar Dragon Coins

Australian Silver Lunar Dragon coins are a series of commemorative bullion coins minted by the Perth Mint in Australia. The Lunar Dragon series is part of the larger Australian Lunar Coin Series, which celebrates the Chinese zodiac.

The Lunar Dragon series was introduced in 2012 and features designs that honor the Year of the Dragon according to the Chinese zodiac calendar. The Chinese zodiac operates on a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by a different animal. The dragon is considered one of the most auspicious and powerful creatures in Chinese culture, symbolizing strength, prosperity, and good fortune.

The Australian Silver Lunar Dragon coins are made of .9999 fine silver and are available in various sizes, including 1/2 ounce, 1 ounce, 2 ounces, 5 ounces, 10 ounces, and 1 kilogram. The coins have a legal tender status in Australia, with face values ranging from $0.50 to $30 AUD, although their intrinsic value as silver bullion typically exceeds their face value.

The obverse of the Lunar Dragon coins features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, the reigning monarch of Australia, while the reverse showcases intricate designs representing the dragon. The Perth Mint is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, and these coins often feature detailed artwork, intricate engraving, and a proof-like finish, making them popular among collectors and investors alike.

As part of the Lunar Coin Series, the Lunar Dragon coins are released annually in limited mintages, with different designs for each year corresponding to the respective zodiac animal. The coins are packaged individually in protective capsules or are sometimes available in themed display cases or mint-sealed rolls.

Due to their limited mintages, artistic designs, and precious metal content, Australian Silver Lunar Dragon coins can carry a higher premium over the spot price of silver compared to generic silver bullion. This premium can vary depending on factors such as the coin's condition, rarity, and market demand.

Significance of The Dragon In The Chinese Zodiac

The dragon holds great significance in Chinese culture and is considered one of the most powerful and auspicious creatures in the Chinese zodiac. Here are some key points about the significance of the dragon in the Chinese zodiac:

• Symbol of Power and Good Fortune: The dragon is associated with strength, power, and good luck. It is believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and success to those born in the Year of the Dragon.
• Imperial Symbol: In Chinese culture, the dragon has long been associated with the emperor and imperial power. It is considered the ultimate symbol of authority and is often depicted in imperial robes and regalia.
• Positive Traits: Individuals born in the Year of the Dragon are believed to inherit some of the dragon's positive traits. They are seen as confident, ambitious, charismatic, and natural leaders. Dragons are often admired for their courage, creativity, and determination.
• Dragon Dance and Festivities: During traditional Chinese New Year celebrations, dragon dances are performed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. These lively dances involve a team of performers who manipulate a long dragon puppet, often accompanied by the beating of drums and cymbals.
• Celestial Guardians: Dragons are also seen as celestial guardians in Chinese mythology. They are believed to control the weather, bring rain for a good harvest, and protect against calamities. In this context, dragons are associated with the element of water and are considered benevolent beings.
• Yin and Yang: In the Chinese zodiac, the dragon represents the yang energy, which is associated with masculinity, activity, and light. The opposite sign, the phoenix, represents the yin energy, associated with femininity, receptivity, and darkness. The dragon and phoenix are often depicted together as a symbol of harmonious balance in relationships and marriage.
• Dragon Boat Festival: The Dragon Boat Festival, celebrated annually in China, is another cultural event associated with dragons. It involves dragon boat races where teams paddle in long boats adorned with dragon heads and tails. The festival is held to commemorate the ancient poet Qu Yuan and is believed to bring protection against evil spirits and disease.
  

These are some of the key aspects highlighting the significance of the dragon in the Chinese zodiac and its broader cultural importance in Chinese tradition and mythology.