2016 1/2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Monkey BU – Series II

In the heart of ancient Chinese tradition, the Year of the Monkey has long symbolized creativity, playfulness, and wit. Revered in folklore for its intelligence and charm, the monkey is the ninth animal in the zodiac—an emblem celebrated not only for its mischievous spirit but also for its ability to outsmart adversity and bring prosperity to those under its sign. Across centuries, families have told tales of clever monkeys who bring luck, resourcefulness, and enduring joy, weaving these motifs into New Year celebrations and art, and inspiring generations with their lessons in resilience and ingenuity.

2016 marked another chapter in this storied heritage, as collectors and cultural connoisseurs worldwide welcomed the Year of the Monkey. The Perth Mint—renowned for fusing artistic vision with impeccable craftsmanship—embraced this occasion by dedicating its Lunar Series II to the legendary primate. Each edition in the Lunar series not only pays homage to the Chinese zodiac, but also encapsulates the broader tradition of intertwining precious metals with stories that transcend borders and ages.

Artistic interpretation flourishes in these gold releases, as the design draws upon powerful cultural emblems. The peach tree motif, for example, is an age-old Chinese symbol for longevity and immortality. In many legends, the monkey’s association with the peach tree further underscores its connection to good fortune and vibrant life—a marriage of myth and material that appeals to the numismatist’s eye and intellect alike.

This thoughtful approach to coinage is a hallmark of the Perth Mint, whose Lunar Series has enjoyed robust global acclaim since its inception. Beginning in 1996, each annual issue has become eagerly anticipated by collectors and investors, prized not only for gold content but also for the layers of meaning imprinted on every surface. The Lunar Monkey coin captures a moment in this ongoing narrative: a piece that speaks to the art of storytelling through gold, inviting its owner into a lineage of collectors who value history as much as rarity.

Owning a coin from the Lunar Series II is about more than acquiring precious metal; it is an invitation to hold a fragment of cultural memory—one that bridges Eastern tradition and modern craftsmanship, connecting past wisdom with future promise. For those seeking to enrich their collection with artifacts that resonate beyond bullion, the Year of the Monkey gold coin offers an experience as rewarding as it is enduring.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin features the regal effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a symbol of both legal tender status and international recognition. This portrait, rendered with exquisite detail, is accompanied by inscriptions denoting the coin’s denomination and year of issue, affirming its authenticity and place within the Commonwealth’s numismatic legacy.

Turning to the reverse, collectors are greeted by a striking scene inspired by Chinese tradition: an adult monkey poised gracefully on the branch of a peach tree, with a single peach delicately held in its grasp. This composition, created by artist Ing Ing Jong, marries realism with symbolism, as the peach tree alludes to longevity and the monkey embodies wit and vitality. The Chinese character for “monkey” and the inscription “Year of the Monkey” complete the tableau, ensuring the coin’s narrative is as visually compelling as it is culturally meaningful.

Product Highlights

• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, with inscriptions of denomination and year, encapsulating the coin’s legal tender status and international collectibility.
• Reverse: Showcases an adult monkey perched on a peach tree, holding a peach—a powerful combination of artistry and symbolism reflecting longevity and good fortune in Chinese culture, along with the Chinese character for “monkey” and the “Year of the Monkey” inscription.

Investment Appeal

This release stands apart as a compelling choice for both collectors and investors, balancing intricate design with cultural resonance. The global popularity of the Lunar Series II, coupled with the Perth Mint’s reputation for exceptional quality and limited mintages, ensures strong liquidity and sustained demand. As gold continues to serve as a time-tested vehicle for wealth preservation, coins embedded with rich symbolism and international appeal like the 2016 Year of the Monkey enrich any numismatic portfolio. For those drawn to the fusion of heritage, artistry, and intrinsic value, this coin offers a rare synthesis—an asset that tells a story as it grows in prestige and worth.