Australian Silver Lunar Monkey Coins

About The Australian Silver Lunar Monkey

The Australian Silver Lunar Monkey Coins are a series of silver bullion coins issued by the Perth Mint in Australia. These coins are part of the larger Lunar Series, which was first introduced in 1996 and celebrates the Chinese zodiac signs.

The Lunar Series is based on the 12-year lunar calendar cycle, with each year associated with a different animal from the Chinese zodiac. The Monkey is one of the zodiac animals, and it was featured in the series in 2016. The next Year of the Monkey will occur in 2028.

The Australian Silver Lunar Monkey Coins are struck in .9999 fine silver, making them highly pure and sought after by collectors and investors alike. The Perth Mint is renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, making these coins particularly appealing to numismatists.

The obverse side of the Lunar Monkey Coins features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, as well as the face value of the coin. The reverse side showcases a design specific to the Year of the Monkey. For example, the 2016 Silver Lunar Monkey Coin displays a monkey swinging from the branch of a tree, surrounded by leaves and the Chinese character for "monkey."

The coins are available in various sizes, including 1 kilogram, 10 ounces, 5 ounces, 2 ounces, 1 ounce, and fractional sizes such as 1/2 ounce, 1/4 ounce, 1/10 ounce, and 1/20 ounce. The larger coins typically have limited mintages, adding to their collectible appeal.
As with other bullion coins, the value of Australian Silver Lunar Monkey Coins is primarily based on their silver content and prevailing market price of silver. However, their numismatic value can also fluctuate based on factors such as rarity, condition, and collector demand.

Significance Of The Monkey In The Chinese Lunar Calendar

In the Chinese lunar calendar, the Monkey is one of the twelve zodiac animals that represent each year in a 12-year cycle. The Chinese zodiac, also known as Shengxiao, is based on a legend where the Jade Emperor invited animals to a race, and the order in which they arrived determined their position in the zodiac.

The Monkey holds a significant place in Chinese culture and is associated with various characteristics and symbolism. Here are some key aspects:

• Cleverness and Intelligence: The Monkey is considered one of the most intelligent and clever animals in Chinese folklore. It is believed to be resourceful, quick-witted, and adaptable. These traits are often associated with success and problem-solving skills.
• Playfulness and Trickery: Monkeys are known for their playful nature and mischievous behavior. This aspect of their personality is also reflected in the Chinese zodiac. People born in the Year of the Monkey are often seen as lively, fun-loving, and witty. They are known for their ability to entertain and bring joy to others.
• Creativity and Innovation: The Monkey is seen as a symbol of creativity and innovation. In Chinese culture, it is believed that those born in the Year of the Monkey possess artistic talents and possess the ability to think outside the box. They are often associated with inventiveness and originality.
• Ambition and Resourcefulness: Monkeys are known for their ambitious nature and their ability to find solutions to challenges. People born in the Year of the Monkey are believed to possess a strong drive to achieve their goals. They are resourceful, adaptable, and willing to take risks in pursuit of success.
• Symbol of Wealth and Prosperity: In Chinese culture, the Monkey is often associated with good fortune, wealth, and prosperity. Its lively and active nature is believed to attract positive energy and opportunities for financial growth.
  

It's important to note that the Chinese zodiac signs are not only associated with the year of birth but also influence various aspects of life, including compatibility, career choices, and personal characteristics.