2016 Perth Mint Lunar Monkey 1/2 oz Silver Coin (With Capsule)

These 2016 Perth Mint Lunar Series II Year of the Monkey coins contain 1/2 troy ounce of .999 fine silver each coin weighs 15.567g, has a diameter of 36.60mm in brilliant uncirculated condition with issued a face value of $.50 (AUD) by the Australian government. These coins epitomizes the Perth Mint's rich tradition of minting bullion coins portraying Chinese Lunar themes and have proven be be highly sought-after and collectible.

The reverse design of this year's release marks the 2016 Year of the Monkey, one of the 12 animals associated with the ancient Chinese lunar calendar and the "ninth" coin in this series. Each coin depicts an adult monkey and a baby monkey sitting in a peach tree. The baby is holding a peach, which is symbolic of longevity and immortality. Those born under the influence of this sign are said to be intelligent, quick-witted, optimistic, ambitious, and adventurous. The Chinese character for ‘monkey’ and the inscription ‘Year of the Monkey’ also appear in the design with The Perth Mint’s traditional ‘P’ mintmark.

The Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2016 year-date, and the monetary denomination are shown on the coin’s obverse.

Australian Silver Lunar Series 2 - The Perth Mint’s lunar theme has been secured for another 12 years with the introduction of the Australian Silver Lunar Series 2. Created due to popular demand from international investors, the Australian Silver Lunar Series II began in 2008 with the Year of the Mouse coins and will end in 2019 with the Year of the Pig coins. Following the highly popular Australian Silver Lunar Series 1, this second series has also attracted attention from collectors and investors all over the world.

The design for the Australian Silver Lunar bullion coin series draws its inspiration from China’s ancient lunar calendar. Central to the stories in the calendar are 12 animals, each said to have a profound influence over those born under its year of "rule." Thus, the Australian Silver Lunar series showcases these 12 animals that play a part in the calendar. Struck from .999 fine silver, Australian Silver Lunar Series II coins are a great way to acquire and invest in precious metals. Legal Australian tender, most Silver Lunar Series II coins are struck with a larger diameter.