2011 1/2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Rabbit BU – Series II

In the ancient lunar calendar, the Rabbit holds a place of honor, embodying tranquility and good fortune. The 2011 edition of the Australian Lunar Series II celebrates this gentle creature, continuing a tradition that bridges Eastern zodiac symbolism with Western numismatic artistry. Those born in Rabbit years—1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, and 2011—are said to inherit the animal’s admirable traits: intelligence, articulation, compassion, and loyalty.

The Perth Mint’s Lunar Series II, launched in 2008 as a follow-up to the highly successful first series, represents a modern approach to ancient symbolism. Each coin in this collection serves as both a cultural artifact and a precious metal investment, with the Rabbit being the fourth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. The series has garnered worldwide acclaim for its exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Chinese tradition holds the Rabbit in high esteem, associating it with the moon and peaceful prosperity. People born in Rabbit years are believed to possess a sweet, kind-hearted nature, mirroring the gentle demeanor of the animal itself. They typically maintain immaculate homes and display impeccable manners, making them pleasant companions who easily form enduring friendships.

The 2011 Gold Lunar Rabbit coin stands as a testament to the Perth Mint’s commitment to excellence. Each piece is struck with precision to ensure a consistent, high-quality finish that collectors have come to expect. The coin’s .9999 fine gold content speaks to its investment potential, with its value derived not only from its precious metal weight but also from its cultural and numismatic significance.

For investors and collectors alike, this coin offers a blend of beauty, rarity, and intrinsic value. The periodic release tied to the lunar calendar creates a natural collecting cycle, while the historical context and cultural symbolism add depth beyond mere precious metal content. This particular installment in the Lunar Series II has become a celebrated addition to investment portfolios and collectors’ showcases worldwide.

Design Features

The reverse of this exquisite coin features a meticulously crafted rabbit foraging among grass, capturing the animal’s gentle nature in stunning detail. The Chinese character for “rabbit” is prominently displayed at the top of the design, with the inscription “Year of the Rabbit” beneath the animal’s feet. This artistic representation harmoniously combines traditional Chinese symbolism with the Perth Mint’s renowned craftsmanship, resulting in a design that honors the Rabbit’s place in the lunar calendar while appealing to contemporary collectors.

The obverse showcases the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, regally portrayed wearing an elegant crown with a slight, dignified smile. This side also bears inscriptions of the coin’s year of mintage, weight, purity, and denomination, establishing its status as legal tender of Australia. The juxtaposition of the British monarch alongside Chinese zodiac symbolism represents a beautiful fusion of Eastern and Western cultural elements, exemplifying Australia’s unique position in the global community.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features the Ian Rank-Broadley likeness of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II along with the purity and monetary denomination.
• Reverse: Displays a rabbit foraging among grass, with the Chinese character for “rabbit” and the inscription “Year of the Rabbit.”

Investment Appeal

The 2011 Australia Gold Lunar Rabbit represents an exceptional opportunity for both investors and collectors. Its .9999 pure gold composition provides a tangible asset that is globally recognized and easily stored, offering portfolio diversification during economic uncertainty. The coin’s brilliant uncirculated condition ensures it maintains its pristine appearance over time, further bolstered by protective encapsulation from the mint.

What truly distinguishes this piece in the investment market is its dual value proposition. Beyond its precious metal content, the coin carries numismatic premium potential due to its limited mintage and strong collector demand. The Perth Mint remarkably combines flawless brilliant uncirculated elements with the striking sheen typically associated with proof coins, creating a visual appeal that makes the featured animal stand out dramatically.

For those seeking to enter the popular Lunar Series collection without committing to larger denominations, this coin offers an accessible entry point while still providing exposure to the same artistic excellence and investment potential that has made the series so coveted among numismatists worldwide. As both a celebration of Chinese cultural tradition and a product of Australia’s premier mint, this Lunar Rabbit coin represents a perfect marriage of Eastern symbolism and Western precious metal investment.