2013 2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Snake BU – Series II

In the tapestry of ancient Chinese tradition, the snake is a symbol veiled in intrigue and wisdom. The Year of the Snake, one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, is steeped in centuries of folklore, where the snake is celebrated not merely for its elegance but for the profound attributes it represents—intelligence, insight, and spiritual growth. In imperial China, encountering a snake in your garden was considered an omen of prosperity and luck, a testament to the culture’s nuanced appreciation for this enigmatic creature. Those born under the sign are believed to possess heightened intuition and profound communicative gifts, embodying the very qualities that have shaped dynasties and driven the progress of civilizations.

The Perth Mint’s Lunar Series II sought to encapsulate these enduring themes in gold, crafting a series that bridges numismatic artistry with the mystique of the Chinese zodiac. The 2013 release pays homage to the Year of the Snake, blending the Mint’s storied reputation for craftsmanship with Australia’s multicultural heritage. This coin emerges not only as a tribute to astrological tradition but as a celebration of the ancient wisdom that continues to resonate in contemporary society.

Each year, the Perth Mint’s Lunar Series captures the imagination of collectors worldwide, with designs that do more than simply depict—they narrate. The 2013 Gold Lunar Snake is no exception. It immortalizes the snake’s poised motion as it glides through bamboo and grass, an evocative scene that conjures tales of renewal, hidden strength, and fortune. The coin’s imagery serves as a silent storyteller, inviting those who hold it to connect with the tapestry of myths and values handed down through generations.

The legacy of the Perth Mint itself deepens the coin’s narrative. Established in 1899, the Perth Mint stands as one of the world’s preeminent mints, lauded for its innovation in precious metals and for building bridges between Eastern symbolism and Western numismatics. The Lunar Series II, initiated in the late 20th century, quickly garnered a global following among investors and collectors drawn to its exceptional quality and limited mintage strategy, adding an element of exclusivity to its rich artistic presentation.

As both a cultural artifact and a vessel of value, the 2013 2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Snake connects its owner to an ancient world’s wisdom, and to a contemporary tradition of excellence in minting. Its allure transcends mere precious metal content, inviting collectors to become stewards of history, guardians of artistry, and participants in an ongoing story of fortune and foresight.

Design Features

The obverse features the esteemed portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, as rendered by renowned sculptor Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy, acclaimed for its dignified realism, is paired with the coin’s monetary denomination, reinforcing its sovereign status and underscoring the enduring transnational legacy of the monarch’s reign.

The reverse, crafted with remarkable detail by designer Ing Ing Jong, vividly depicts a large snake elegantly coiled among slender grass and bamboo shoots. The scene is anchored by the Chinese character for “snake” and the inscription “Year of the Snake,” all complemented by the Perth Mint’s iconic “P” mint mark. The snake’s poised presence conveys not only agility and grace but also an aura of quiet power, aligning perfectly with the cultural virtues long associated with the animal. The composition’s fine linework and dimensional finishes evoke both the mystery and beauty of the zodiac legend, resulting in a medallion that is as much a work of art as it is a piece of tangible wealth.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: GOLD – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9999
• Weight: 2 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: The Perth Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Perth
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley, with the coin’s monetary denomination.
• Reverse: Depicts a snake coiled among grass and bamboo, along with the Chinese character for “snake,” the inscription “Year of the Snake,” and the “P” mint mark.

Investment Appeal

This 2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Snake stands as a compelling dual-purpose asset—its .9999 pure gold content and 2-ounce weight offer robust intrinsic value, meeting the highest global standards for precious metal investment. The coin’s status as part of the Perth Mint’s acclaimed Lunar Series II enhances its market recognition and liquidity, while its low mintage and IRA eligibility position it as both a tangible investment and a coveted collectable. The design’s historical and cultural resonance, combined with the Perth Mint’s guarantee of quality and purity, make this coin a desirable addition for those seeking diversification, future appreciation, and the chance to own a piece of numismatic artistry that bridges continents and traditions.