1999 1 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rabbit BU – Series I

As the clock struck midnight on January 1, 1999, the world not only celebrated the dawn of a new year but also welcomed the Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese zodiac. This auspicious occasion was marked by the Perth Mint’s release of the 1999 1 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rabbit coin, a masterpiece that would become a cornerstone in the illustrious Lunar Series I collection.

The rabbit, revered in Chinese culture for its quick wit and gentle nature, has long been a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity. In ancient Chinese folklore, the Jade Rabbit was said to live on the moon, constantly pounding the elixir of immortality for the Moon Goddess Chang’e. This celestial connection imbued the rabbit with an air of mystery and divine favor, making it a beloved figure in East Asian art and literature.

The Year of the Rabbit in 1999 was particularly special, as it coincided with the Earth element in the Chinese five-element system. Earth Rabbits are known for their reliability, kindness, and strong sense of responsibility. These qualities resonated deeply with the global zeitgeist at the turn of the millennium, as the world looked towards a future of hope and renewal.

The Perth Mint, with its rich heritage dating back to 1899, was perfectly poised to capture this cultural significance in precious metal. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, the mint had already established itself as a leader in commemorative coinage. The 1999 Lunar Rabbit coin was not just a continuation of this legacy, but a bold step into a new era of numismatic artistry.

For collectors and investors alike, the 1999 Silver Lunar Rabbit represented more than just a beautiful coin; it was a tangible piece of history. As the fourth release in the Lunar Series I, it quickly became a sought-after item, bridging the gap between Eastern and Western numismatic traditions. Its limited mintage ensured its rarity, while its .999 fine silver content provided a solid foundation for long-term value appreciation.

Today, over two decades since its release, the 1999 Silver Lunar Rabbit continues to captivate. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of lunar-themed coins and the timeless allure of precious metals. For those who possess it, the coin is not merely an investment but a portal to a specific moment in time—a year when the world stood on the cusp of a new millennium, full of promise and possibility, much like the gentle, hopeful rabbit itself.

Design Features

The obverse of the 1999 1 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rabbit coin features the regal portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy, known as the “Fourth Portrait,” depicts Her Majesty with dignified grace, wearing the “Girls of Great Britain and Ireland” tiara. The Queen’s image is surrounded by the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “AUSTRALIA,” and the denomination “1 DOLLAR,” affirming the coin’s status as legal tender.

On the reverse, the artistry truly shines with a beautifully rendered rabbit as the centerpiece. The creature is depicted in a moment of alert tranquility, its long ears perked and its body poised in a seated position. Surrounding the rabbit is a subtle backdrop of foliage, adding depth and context to the design. The Chinese character for “rabbit” is elegantly incorporated, bridging Eastern and Western aesthetic traditions. The year “1999” is prominently displayed, along with the weight and purity specifications “1 OZ 999 SILVER,” ensuring the coin’s authenticity and value are immediately apparent.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 1 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: The Perth Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Perth
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Queen Elizabeth II portrait by Ian Rank-Broadley
• Reverse: Seated rabbit with Chinese character and foliage

Investment Appeal

The 1999 1 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rabbit coin presents a compelling case for both collectors and investors. Its .999 fine silver content provides intrinsic value, offering a hedge against economic uncertainties. As part of the highly regarded Lunar Series I, this coin benefits from global recognition and liquidity, making it an easily tradable asset.

The limited mintage of the 1999 Rabbit coin enhances its numismatic value, with potential for appreciation over time. Its brilliant uncirculated condition ensures that the intricate details of the design remain pristine, appealing to collectors who value quality and preservation.

Furthermore, its eligibility for inclusion in Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) adds an extra layer of appeal for those looking to diversify their retirement portfolios with precious metals. The coin’s dual nature as both a collectible and an investment-grade silver product offers flexibility in long-term financial planning strategies.

For numismatists, the 1999 Silver Lunar Rabbit represents a crucial piece in completing the Lunar Series I collection. Its historical significance, marking the turn of the millennium, adds depth to any curated assemblage. As the years pass, the scarcity of this coin in pristine condition is likely to increase, potentially enhancing its value and desirability among serious collectors.