Chinese Silver Lunar Coins

About Chinese Lunar Coins

Chinese Silver Lunar Coins are a series of commemorative silver coins minted by the People's Bank of China to celebrate the Chinese zodiac. The Chinese zodiac is a 12-year cycle in which each year is associated with an animal sign. These lunar coins are highly popular among collectors and investors worldwide.

The lunar coin series was first introduced by the China Mint in 1981 with the Year of the Rooster coin. Since then, the People's Bank of China has released a new coin each year, featuring the animal sign corresponding to that year in the Chinese zodiac. The series follows a standard set of specifications for each coin, which contributes to their collectibility and consistency.

Chinese Silver Lunar Coins are typically made of .999 fine silver and come in various sizes, ranging from 1/2 troy ounce to 1 kilogram. The coins usually have a face value denominated in Chinese Yuan (CNY), but their intrinsic value as silver bullion often exceeds their face value due to the metal content and spot price of silver. Additionally, some larger-sized coins may have limited mintages, adding to their desirability among collectors.

The obverse side of the lunar coins typically features the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a famous structure from the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. It is accompanied by inscriptions in Chinese characters indicating the issuing authority, year of issue, and the coin's specifications. The reverse side showcases the animal of the Chinese zodiac corresponding to that particular year, along with additional decorative elements and inscriptions.

These lunar coins have gained a strong following both in China and internationally due to their aesthetic appeal, cultural significance, and investment potential. Many collectors and investors appreciate the artistic designs and craftsmanship of the coins, as well as their limited mintages and potential for appreciation in value over time.

Chinese Silver Lunar Coins are often available in various packaging options, including individual capsules, presentation cases, and larger sets containing multiple years. Some editions may incorporate additional features like proof finishes, colorization, or gilded elements to enhance their visual appeal.

Significance Of The Chinese Zodiac

The Chinese zodiac, also known as Shengxiao, is a classification system that assigns an animal and its characteristics to each year in a 12-year cycle. It has deep cultural and astrological significance in Chinese tradition and is widely followed in China and other East Asian countries.

The origins of the Chinese zodiac can be traced back over 2,000 years to ancient Chinese astrology. Legend has it that the Jade Emperor, the supreme deity in Chinese mythology, held a race and invited animals to participate. The order in which the animals finished the race determined their position in the zodiac cycle.

Each animal in the Chinese zodiac is believed to have specific characteristics and traits that are said to influence the personalities, fortunes, and compatibility of individuals born in that year. The zodiac signs are as follows:

1. Rat: Quick-witted, resourceful, and adaptable.
2. Ox: Diligent, reliable, and patient.
3. Tiger: Brave, confident, and competitive.
4. Rabbit: Gentle, kind-hearted, and cautious.
5. Dragon: Ambitious, charismatic, and influential.
6. Snake: Wise, intuitive, and enigmatic.
7. Horse: Energetic, independent, and hardworking.
8. Goat (or Sheep): Calm, gentle, and compassionate.
9. Monkey: Clever, lively, and versatile.
10. Rooster: Observant, practical, and courageous.
11. Dog: Loyal, sincere, and protective.
12. Pig: Honest, tolerant, and diligent.

In addition to the animal signs, the Chinese zodiac also incorporates the concept of the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water), which further categorizes each year into elemental cycles, creating a 60-year cycle. Each animal sign is associated with one of the Five Elements, and the combination of the animal and element is believed to influence the individual's destiny and characteristics.
The Chinese zodiac is widely consulted for various purposes, including determining compatibility in relationships, predicting personal fortunes and luck, and providing guidance in decision-making. It is also an important cultural symbol in Chinese celebrations and is prominently featured during the Lunar New Year festivities.

Furthermore, the Chinese zodiac has found its way into various aspects of Chinese culture, including art, literature, and folklore. The animal signs are often depicted in traditional artwork, sculptures, and handicrafts, and are used to represent different years on calendars and horoscopes.