Australian Lunar Series Gold Coins
Australian Gold Lunar Series Coins
BGASC proudly presents the Gold Lunar Coins from the Perth Mint, a collection that debuted in 1996. Over the years, the Perth Mint has consistently reimagined its lunar-themed designs, creating a collection cherished by investors and collectors globally. The Lunar Series always begins with the Year of the Mouse, marking the initial year in the 12-year Zodiac cycle, and concludes with the Year of the Pig.
Lunar Collections
Since 1996, the Perth Mint has presented several editions of its Gold Lunar Coins. As of 2020, the mint offers three distinct series of lunar-themed releases, each adhering to the 12-year Zodiac cycle. The available collections include:
- Lunar Series I (1996-2007)
- Lunar Series II (2008-2019)
- Lunar Series III (2020-2031)
Designs
Lunar Gold Coins showcase a monarch portrait on the obverse of every release and distinctive reverse designs featuring the animals of the Zodiac. Several design elements characterize these collections. Each release year highlights the animal corresponding to that year in the Zodiac, such as the Mouse, Ox, Tiger, and so forth, up to the Pig.
Throughout the Lunar Series, the Perth Mint has maintained distinct designs for gold and silver options. With Lunar Series III introducing platinum coins for the first time, the decision was made for the gold design to also be featured on the platinum coins. The monarch images on the coins, starting from Lunar Series I, exclusively feature Queen Elizabeth II, with her effigy evolving over time.
Characteristics of the Series
Lunar Coins boast several shared features across different versions and series. Crafted meticulously from .9999 pure gold, they hold the status of legal tender in Australia. The bullion versions of Lunar Series I and Lunar Series II are struck in various weights, including 1 oz, ½ oz, ¼ oz, 1/10 oz, and 1/20 oz.
Occasionally, the Perth Mint issues higher-weight coins, such as 2 oz, 10 oz, and 1 Kilogram, primarily for special editions or proof coins. Each coin bears a face value denominated in Australian Dollars (AUD), starting at $100 for the 1 oz coin, with fractional-weight coins corresponding to their values.
Notably, the production of proof coins in the Gold Lunar series is more limited compared to their bullion counterparts. Proof coins were introduced with Lunar Series II, available exclusively in 1 oz, ¼ oz, and 1/10 oz weights.
Buy Australian Lunar Series Gold at BGASC
For inquiries or assistance, please contact BGASC customer service at 888-992-4272. We are also available via web chat or email.