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Buy Lunar Series II gold coins
The Lunar Series II, which ran from 2008 to 2019, is an iconic series when you buy gold investment coins minted by the Australian Perth Mint. This series is the successor to the equally popular Lunar Series I and was followed by Lunar Series III. Each year of the series is dedicated to one of the animals from the Chinese zodiac, starting with the Year of the Mouse in 2008 and ending with the Year of the Pig in 2019. The Lunar Series II is not only popular among precious metal investors but also a sought-after collectible among coin collectors worldwide.
Buying Lunar Series II gold coins as a collection
Gold coins from the Lunar Series II are an excellent way to buy physical gold but also form a special collection. Just like when you buy Lunar Series I gold coins, all coins from this second series are minted in pure gold with a fineness of 999.9/1000. Virtually all of these coins will eventually end up in the hands of collectors worldwide, thus the collectible value of Lunar Series II gold coins is likely to increase significantly over time.
The history of Lunar Series gold coins
The Lunar Series gold coins were first introduced by the Perth Mint in 1996 with the launch of the Lunar Series I. This series was based on the Chinese lunar calendar, and each year, a coin representing a specific animal of the Chinese zodiac was issued. The immense popularity of this first series led to the introduction of Lunar Series II in 2008. This new series retained the rich traditions of its predecessor but with renewed designs and increased attention to detail and quality. Each year, the coins are minted in limited quantities, contributing to their exclusivity and collectible value.
Lunar Series II in different variants
Lunar Series II coins are minted in various precious metals, including gold, silver, and the option to buy platinum. In addition to the standard versions, there are also special sets, proof coins (with a high-gloss finish and carefully packaged presentations), colored coins, and other collectible variants available. The special editions of Lunar Series II coins are usually offered as collectibles and are often targeted at collectors or presented as gifts. For example, proof coins are often presented in protective capsules or special display boxes. These are often accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and can be purchased as individual coins or in sets.
The story behind The Perth Mint
Founded in 1899, The Perth Mint is part of the historic Royal Mint system of Great Britain and was originally intended to mint gold coins for use in Australia. Located in Perth, Western Australia, this mint has a rich history in producing some of the most refined and technically advanced coins in the world. Over the years, The Perth Mint has not only focused on the production of circulation coins but also on the manufacture of collector's items and investment coins such as those in the Lunar Series. Did you know that you can also buy Perth Mint gold bars?
The Chinese Zodiac and animal symbolism
The Chinese zodiac is an essential part of Chinese culture and influences many aspects of daily life and decision-making. This zodiac is based on a twelve-year cycle, with each year represented by a specific animal with unique characteristics and meanings. In Chinese astrology, it is believed that the year someone is born influences various aspects of their life, such as personality, career, relationships, and health. Many people consult Chinese astrology to gain insight into their own characteristics and to determine how best to interact with others, both personally and professionally.
The following birth years are based on the Chinese lunar calendar, so the dates of the Chinese New Year vary from year to year in the Gregorian calendar. For example, if you were born in January or February, you may need to check if your birth year falls in the previous year according to the Chinese calendar to determine the exact Chinese zodiac sign.
Mouse - Intelligence and adaptability
Born in 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Ox - Reliability and strength
Born in 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Tiger - Courage and unpredictability
Born in 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Rabbit - Elegance and kindness
Born in 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Dragon - Strength and luck
Born in 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Snake - Wisdom and mystery
Born in 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Horse - Freedom and energy
Born in 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
Goat - Peacefulness and creativity
Born in 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
Monkey - Cleverness and curiosity
Born in 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
Rooster - Punctuality and honesty
Born in 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
Dog - Loyalty and sincerity
Born in 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
Pig - Generosity and patience
Born in 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
Each animal has deep cultural significance and impacts the lives of people born under the corresponding sign.
Different Weights of Lunar Series II Coins
The gold coins of the Lunar Series II are available in various weights and versions, making them suitable for both small and large investors. The most common weights to buy pure gold are 1/20 oz, 1/10 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/2 oz, 1 oz, 2 oz, and 10 oz. This variety allows collectors and investors to choose based on budget and investment goals. Each weight has its own unique features and price point, depending on the market and rarity.
Mintage of the 1 Oz Lunar Series II gold coins
The best-selling weight of these coins is the 1 troy ounce (31.1 grams) version. The 1 oz gold coin is one of the most popular sizes among collectors and investors, meaning it often sells out quickly and maintains a good secondary market value.
Although specific mintage figures may vary by year, The Perth Mint has set a maximum mintage for some years. For example, for many of the gold coins in this series, a limit was set of 30,000 pieces for the 1 oz coin. This applied, for example, to the years of the Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, and other popular animals. For some other years, the mintage may be lower, depending on demand and strategic decisions of the mint. It is also possible to buy Lunar series II silver coins.
Buy gold coins from the Lunar Series II
Lunar Series II gold coins are minted as a limited edition. This second series, which follows the Lunar Series I and is the predecessor of the Lunar Series III, features the following coins:
2008: Lunar Series II Mouse gold coins
2009: Lunar Series II Ox gold coins
2010: Lunar Series II Tiger gold coins
2011: Lunar Series II Rabbit gold coins
2012: Lunar Series II Dragon gold coins
2013: Lunar Series II Snake gold coins
2014: Lunar Series II Horse gold coins
2015: Lunar Series II Goat gold coins
2016: Lunar Series II Monkey gold coins
2017: Lunar Series II Rooster gold coins
2018: Lunar Series II Dog gold coins
2019: Lunar Series II Pig gold coins