2004 1/2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Monkey BU – Series I

In the ancient traditions of Chinese astrology, the Monkey holds a special place as the ninth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. People born in the Year of the Monkey are believed to possess exceptional intelligence, curiosity, and a playful spirit that mirrors the characteristics of their zodiac animal. The 2004 Australia Gold Lunar Monkey coin captures this essence magnificently, continuing the Perth Mint’s celebrated Lunar Series I that began in 1996.

The Year of the Monkey is associated with innovation, quick-wittedness, and versatility. In Chinese folklore, the Monkey King (Sun Wukong) stands as one of the most beloved characters, known for his magical abilities and mischievous nature. This mythological figure appears in "Journey to the West," one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature, where his cleverness and resourcefulness help him overcome numerous obstacles. The symbolism of the monkey in Chinese culture extends beyond mere playfulness—it represents intellectual prowess and adaptability.

The Perth Mint's decision to honor the Chinese Lunar Calendar through this series reflects Australia's recognition of the cultural significance these zodiac animals hold for many Asian communities worldwide. The 2004 release marked the ninth coin in the Lunar Series I, continuing a tradition that had already captured the attention of both collectors and investors globally. With its limited mintage of just 15,898 coins, this particular release immediately positioned itself as a desirable addition to numismatic collections.

What makes the Lunar Series particularly special is how it bridges Eastern and Western cultural elements. While celebrating Chinese zodiac traditions, the coins simultaneously honor Western numismatic conventions and feature the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. This cultural fusion creates a unique collectible that resonates with diverse audiences while maintaining its authenticity as both a work of art and a precious metal investment.

The 2004 Gold Lunar Monkey coin combines aesthetic appeal with investment potential. Crafted from .9999 fine gold, it maintains the exceptional purity standards that have become synonymous with the Perth Mint's reputation. The limited production run ensures that these coins remain scarce in the marketplace, potentially enhancing their numismatic premium over time as collectors seek to complete their Lunar Series sets.

The cultural richness embedded in these coins transcends their material value, telling stories that have been passed down through generations. Each lunar year brings its own characteristics and symbolism, and the Monkey year celebrates intelligence, curiosity, and problem-solving abilities—qualities that might resonate particularly well with astute investors and discerning collectors.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2004 Australia Gold Lunar Monkey coin showcases a dignified right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, meticulously created by artist Ian Rank-Broadley. This regal effigy is surrounded by essential inscriptions that establish the coin's authenticity and value, including "ELIZABETH II," "AUSTRALIA," and the denomination. The precise detailing of Her Majesty's profile demonstrates the Perth Mint's commitment to excellence in craftsmanship, with every contour and feature rendered with remarkable clarity even on this compact canvas.

The reverse design, which truly brings this coin to life, features a charming depiction of a monkey climbing along a branch, capturing the playful agility that these creatures are known for. Created by artist Ing Ing Jong, the design perfectly encapsulates the spirited essence of the monkey zodiac sign. Above the monkey is the traditional Chinese character for "monkey," connecting the coin to its cultural roots. Below the main image, the inscription "1/20 OZ 9999 GOLD" confirms the coin's weight and exceptional purity, while the year "2004" is positioned behind the monkey's tail, documenting this specific release within the broader Lunar Series I collection. The artistry evident in the monkey's posture and expression demonstrates remarkable attention to detail, with the creature's features clearly defined despite the coin's modest dimensions.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• Obverse: Features Ian Rank-Broadley's portrait of Queen Elizabeth II along with inscriptions of her name, the country of issue (Australia), and the face value.
• Reverse: Depicts a playful monkey climbing a branch, with the Chinese character for "monkey" above, the year 2004 behind the tail, and "1/20 OZ 9999 GOLD" below the image.

Investment Appeal

The 2004 1/20 oz Australia Gold Lunar Monkey represents an exceptional investment opportunity for several compelling reasons. Its limited mintage of only 15,898 coins creates natural scarcity that appeals to collectors seeking to complete their Lunar Series I sets. This relative rarity, combined with the enduring popularity of the Chinese Lunar theme, has historically supported strong secondary market demand.

As part of the prestigious Perth Mint Lunar Series I, this coin carries the weight of a globally recognized brand known for exceptional quality and artistic merit. The .9999 fine gold content ensures that even beyond its collectible appeal, the coin maintains intrinsic value as a precious metal asset. This dual nature—both a pure gold investment and a limited-edition collectible—provides versatility that pure bullion products cannot match.

For investors with an appreciation for numismatic history, the cultural significance of the Monkey zodiac adds another dimension of value. As markets fluctuate, tangible assets with both precious metal content and collector appeal have demonstrated resilience, often commanding premiums significantly above their melt value. The small 1/20 oz size also makes this particular coin accessible to collectors at various investment levels, allowing for easier entry into the precious metals market while still capturing the artistry and collectibility of the larger denominations.