2001 1/20 oz Australia Gold Lunar Snake BU – Series I

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  <p>
    In the heart of ancient Chinese tradition, the Year of the Snake is a time veiled in wisdom and transformation. Legends trace its roots to the Great Race orchestrated by the Jade Emperor, where the snake’s cleverness earned it the sixth place in the zodiac. Those born under this sign are thought to embody intelligence, grace, and a quiet mystery—virtues revered across centuries and cultures. In 2001, as the new millennium dawned, The Perth Mint honored this legacy with a masterwork in gold, weaving myth and modernity into the fabric of numismatics.
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  <p>
    The Chinese zodiac, a 12-year cycle interwoven with stories of rivalry and triumph, continues to fascinate collectors worldwide. Coins bearing these revered animal symbols hold not only monetary value, but also serve as tangible links to age-old beliefs about luck, destiny, and character. The snake, poised and enigmatic, carries connotations of renewal and prosperity; it is a symbol that has inspired storytellers, artisans, and emperors alike.
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  <p>
    The Perth Mint’s Lunar Series I is celebrated for its blend of cultural authenticity and meticulous artistry. Launched in 1996 and culminating in 2007, the series explored each zodiac year with distinct designs and extraordinary attention to detail. By 2001, anticipation peaked as the mint unveiled the Gold Lunar Snake—a piece that captures the intricate beauty and significance of this ancient sign. 
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  <p>
    Nestled within a world-renowned portfolio, this year marked a union of heritage and craftsmanship. Collectors were drawn to the series not merely by its investment potential but by its resonance with global audiences—each release an event that echoed from Asia’s bustling cities to the quiet showcases of numismatic aficionados.
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    For many, the allure of this coin is deeply personal. Whether commemorating a birth year, embracing the auspicious qualities of the snake, or seeking a connection to history’s grand tapestry, this gold piece transcends its form. It is, at once, a celebration of continuity and an invitation to hold the past, present, and future in the palm of one’s hand.
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  <h3>Design Features</h3>
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    The obverse of the 2001 1/20 oz Australia Gold Lunar Snake BU - Series I prominently features the right-profile effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, sculpted by acclaimed artist Ian Rank-Broadley. This regal portrait is encircled by inscriptions denoting "ELIZABETH II," "AUSTRALIA," and the coin’s legal tender denomination, underscoring the international esteem of both monarch and mint.
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    On the reverse, a masterfully rendered snake glides around a sturdy branch, evoking the fluidity and elegance associated with its zodiac origin. The design is punctuated by the Chinese character for "Snake"—an emblem of prosperity and wisdom—alongside inscriptions that read "1/20 OZ 9999 GOLD" and the year "2001." The artistry melds nuanced lines and lifelike motion, invoking both reverence and curiosity in the viewer. This motif draws from both Chinese symbolism and the Perth Mint’s tradition of striking dynamic, culturally resonant images, elevating the coin’s status among collectors.
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  <h3>Product Highlights</h3>
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    <li><strong>Metal Type:</strong> GOLD - Hedge</li>
    <li><strong>Purity:</strong> 0.9999</li>
    <li><strong>Weight:</strong> 0.05 oz</li>
    <li><strong>Manufacturer:</strong> The Perth Mint</li>
    <li><strong>Mint Mark:</strong> P - Perth</li>
    <li><strong>IRA Eligible:</strong> Yes</li>
    <li><strong>Obverse:</strong> Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, inscribed with “ELIZABETH II,” “AUSTRALIA,” and denomination.</li>
    <li><strong>Reverse:</strong> A finely detailed snake entwined around a branch, accompanied by the Chinese character for "Snake," gold purity, and the year 2001.</li>
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  <h3>Investment Appeal</h3>
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    Struck in .9999 fine gold by The Perth Mint, this 1/20 oz Lunar Snake is a harmonious fusion of cultural narrative and tangible value. Its purity and globally recognized mint assure liquidity and lasting demand, while its eligibility for precious metals IRAs enhances its long-term financial appeal. The Lunar Series I is renowned among numismatists for limited mintages and internationally respected artistry, positioning each coin as both a coveted collectible and a prudent hedge against economic uncertainty. This piece encapsulates not only the prestige of its legacy and the security of its metal content but also a timeless allure fueled by ancient tradition and modern excellence.
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