2016 2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Monkey BU – Series II

The Year of the Monkey, a vibrant celebration in Chinese culture, takes center stage in the 2016 Australia Gold Lunar Series II coin. This exquisite piece captures the essence of the ninth animal in the Chinese zodiac, known for its intelligence, curiosity, and playful nature. The Monkey, revered in Chinese mythology, is believed to bring good fortune and success to those born under its sign.

Dating back over 2,000 years, the Chinese zodiac has been an integral part of Asian culture, influencing art, literature, and daily life. The Monkey, in particular, holds a special place in Chinese folklore. One of the most famous tales featuring this clever creature is the story of the Monkey King, Sun Wukong, from the classic novel "Journey to the West." This legendary figure embodies the Monkey's traits of wit, agility, and mischief.

In Chinese astrology, those born in the Year of the Monkey are thought to be quick-witted, innovative, and natural problem-solvers. These characteristics are reflected in the coin's design, which showcases the Monkey's playful and intelligent nature. The Year of the Monkey occurs every 12 years, with recent years including 1980, 1992, 2004, and 2016.

The Perth Mint, Australia's oldest operating mint, has masterfully crafted this coin as part of its renowned Lunar Series II. This series, which began in 2008, continues the legacy of the original Lunar Series, celebrating the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. Each year, a new animal takes the spotlight, making these coins highly anticipated by collectors and investors worldwide.

The 2016 Year of the Monkey coin not only serves as a beautiful piece of art but also as a tangible connection to ancient Chinese traditions. It bridges the gap between East and West, allowing collectors to hold a piece of cultural history in their hands. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, such coins serve as ambassadors of cultural exchange and understanding.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2016 Australia Gold Lunar Monkey coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This portrait, which has graced Australian coins since 1998, showcases the Queen in exquisite detail, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. The obverse also includes inscriptions of the Queen's name, the country of issue, and the coin's denomination.

On the reverse, the Monkey takes center stage in a design that beautifully captures the animal's essence. A playful monkey is depicted sitting on a peach tree branch, a symbol of longevity and immortality in Chinese culture. The peach, known as the "fruit of immortality," adds an extra layer of symbolism to the design. The monkey's posture and expression convey its intelligent and curious nature, true to its zodiac characteristics. The Chinese character for "monkey" is also incorporated into the design, along with the inscription "Year of the Monkey," seamlessly blending Eastern and Western elements.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II designed by Ian Rank-Broadley
• Reverse: Monkey sitting on a peach tree branch, with Chinese character for "monkey" and "Year of the Monkey" inscription

Investment Appeal

The 2016 Australia Gold Lunar Monkey coin presents a compelling investment opportunity for both numismatists and precious metal enthusiasts. As part of the highly regarded Lunar Series II from the Perth Mint, this coin carries the prestige of a government-backed, limited mintage release. Its gold content provides intrinsic value, while its unique design and cultural significance add numismatic appeal.

The coin's limited mintage ensures its scarcity, potentially driving up its value over time. Collectors particularly value complete sets of the Lunar Series, making each annual release an essential addition. The Year of the Monkey's association with intelligence and success may resonate with investors looking for auspicious additions to their portfolios.

Furthermore, the coin's exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail make it a standout piece in any collection. Its blend of Western minting techniques with Eastern symbolism creates a unique cross-cultural appeal, potentially broadening its market. For those interested in diversifying their investment portfolio with tangible assets, this coin offers a perfect blend of precious metal value and collector's item potential.