12 x 1 oz - Lunar Series I Complete 1999-2010

What does “Lunar” mean?

Lunar series are based on theChinese lunar calendar, which follows the cycles of the moon rather than the solar year. The calendar consists of atwelve-year cycle, where each year is represented by an animal:

Rat

Ox

Tiger

Rabbit

Dragon

Snake

HORSE

Goat

Monkey

Rooster

Dog

Pig

Each animal is considered to carry specific characteristics that affect people born in that year, such as strength, intelligence, loyalty or success.

Lunar Series I – background and significance

When the Perth Mint launched the Lunar Series I, the concept was relatively new in the Western world:

to combineChinese culture and symbolismwithWestern coin minting in high quality silver.

The series quickly became popular globally, especially in Asia, Europe and North America, and created a strong collector's interest that remains to this day.

This isthe first official lunar silver series from the Perth Mint, making it historically important compared to the later Lunar Series II and III.

Design and execution

Every year hasa unique motifrepresenting the animal of the year

The design is often classic and stylish, with clear inspiration from traditional Chinese art.

The back showsQueen Elizabeth II, confirming the coins' status as legal tender

No color printing or modern effects – the focus is on engraving and relief

The design style is clearly different from later Lunar series, which are often more detailed and technically advanced.

Legal status – means of payment

Unlike private silver medals,Australian Lunar Series I official coins.

This means that they:

Published byThe Perth Mint on behalf of Australia

Have aofficial denomination of 1 Australian dollar

Islegal tender in Australia

Backed by the Australian government

In practice, they are not used as currency, but are valued according to their silver content and collector's value.

Collector and investment aspect

The Lunar Series I is particularly sought after for several reasons:

First Lunar Series from the Perth Mint

Limited editions compared to later series

Great international collector interest

Complete sets are significantly harder to find than individual coins

Certain vintages and animals (especially Dragon, Tiger and Ox) have developed clear premiums over the silver price.

Difference to Lunar Series II and III

Lunar I: More classic design, lower editions, historical value

Lunar II: More detailed motifs, very popular globally

Lunar III: Modern technology, safety features, new interpretation of the animals

Lunar Series I is often considered the most “original” and numismatically important.

Series: Australian Lunar Series I

Publisher: The Perth Mint (Australia)

Period: 1999–2010

Number of coins: 12

Weight: 1 troy ounce (31.1 g)

Silver content: .999 fine silver

Denomination: 1 AUD

Diameter: approx. 40.4 mm

Quality: Bullion / Brilliant Uncirculated