The Perth Mint has recently released the 2013 Year of the Snake Gold Coins from the Chinese Astrological Series. Three individual designs feature designs created to represent Prosperity, Longevity, and Success.
People born within the date range of February 10, 2013 to January 30, 2014 are said to be born in the Year of the Snake. Those born under the influence of this sign are said to be mysterious, deep thinking, and wise.
The reverse designs for the three coins feature a snake motif representing the Chinese characters of "Shou", "Lu", and "Fu", which respectively mean "Longevity", "Success", and "Prosperity". An inscription beneath reads "1/5 oz 9999 Gold $30". The obverse design of each coin contains the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II along with the "2013" date. These coins are issued as legal tender under the authority of the government of Tuvalu.
Each coin is struck in 99.99% pure gold and has a weight of 6.222 grams and diameter of 22.60 mm. The maximum mintages are 4,000 Prosperity coins, 2,000 Longevity coins, and 2,000 Success coins.
Two different packaging options are offered. A three coin set including one example of each coin is available, or the Prosperity coin may be purchased individually. Both options are packaged in a wooden display case with customized shipper and numbered certificate of authenticity.
These latest releases are among several Lunar Gold Coins released by the Perth Mint. For ordering or additional information on any of the coins, please visit this page on the Perth Mint website.
Much prefer the Lunar coins from the China Mint! Snake year coins will be available after Chinese New Year on 2/9/13.