Australia: Lunar year collector coins feature laughing pig

The Royal Australian Mint has released new lunar zodiac collector coins which celebrate the Year of the Pig, commencing on the 5th February 2019. The Chinese zodiac, which consists of a 12-year cycle, comes to an end with the Pig — and a new cycle will begin for 2020. As with the western zodiac, there are believed to be certain characteristics and traits associated with each year. Each sign of the lunar zodiac, which is represented by animals, both actual — and in the case of the Dragon — mythical.

For instance, did you know:

• The numbers two and five are lucky for people born in the Lunar Year of the Pig.
• The Rabbit and Goat are the two most romantically compatible zodiac signs with the Pig. These two signs are highly acceptable as the Pig appreciates a lot of things about the Rabbit and the latter appreciates the Pig just as he is. The Goat is probably the best association, as both signs are cheerful and they both have a strong sense of responsibility for their house and family.
• It is said that the Pig is considered to be a forward-looking zodiac symbol. This is because pigs are always observed foraging in a forward direction, never backward. As such, they are regarded as a symbol of good luck.
• The Pig’s twin western zodiac sign is Scorpio, as it is believed those born under this sign share very similar personality characteristics and intellectual traits.
• Their lucky colour is purple and their associated direction is north, while their fixed element is water.

The three coins are produced in gold and silver, which share the same reverse design. Included in the depiction is the auspicious nature of the Year of the Pig. This is represented with a happy pig holding a lucky Chinese coin representing wealth. The pig is surrounded by various earth elements representing the final sign of the 12-year lunar cycle.

All three options of these Proof quality coins include the effigy of HM Queen Elizabeth II as created by Ian Rank-Broadley.

Denomination	Metal	Weight	Diameter	Quality	Maximum Mintage
$5	.999 Silver	31.1 g	40 mm	Proof	3,500
$30	.999 Silver	1000 g	99.9 mm	Proof	100
$25	.999 Gold	7.8 g	21.6 mm	Proof	1,000

Each coin is individually encapsulated and presented in a custom case, along with a certificate of authenticity. For additional information about these coins and others available from the Royal Australian Mint, please visit their website.

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