2017 1/2 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rooster BU – Series II

As the Year of the Rooster dawns in the Chinese zodiac calendar, the Perth Mint unveils a masterpiece that captures the essence of this auspicious creature. The 2017 1/2 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rooster coin is not just a piece of precious metal; it's a testament to the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and the artistry of modern minting.

In Chinese tradition, the rooster is revered as a symbol of fidelity and punctuality. Its crow at dawn has long been associated with the banishment of evil spirits and the heralding of a new day. This symbolism dates back to ancient times when the rooster's call was the most reliable method of timekeeping for agricultural communities.

The Year of the Rooster occurs every twelve years in the Chinese zodiac cycle. Those born under this sign are said to possess qualities of confidence, honesty, and a strong work ethic. The rooster's association with these virtues has made it a popular motif in Chinese art and literature for centuries.

In feng shui practices, the rooster is believed to ward off negative energies and promote good fortune. Its image is often placed in homes and businesses to invite prosperity and protection. This cultural significance adds a layer of meaning to the coin beyond its precious metal content.

The Perth Mint's decision to feature the rooster in its Lunar Series II collection is a nod to the global appreciation for Chinese zodiac symbolism. This series, which began in 2008, has become highly sought after by collectors and investors worldwide, blending cultural significance with numismatic excellence.

As we delve into the specifics of this coin, we find a perfect marriage of traditional symbolism and modern minting technology. The Perth Mint's reputation for producing coins of exceptional quality is evident in every detail of this lunar issue.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2017 1/2 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rooster coin features the iconic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy, which has graced Australian coinage since 1998, is rendered with exquisite detail, capturing the regal bearing of the late monarch. Surrounding the portrait are inscriptions denoting the coin's country of origin, denomination, and year of issue.

On the reverse, the artistry truly shines. A proud rooster stands in the foreground, its feathers meticulously engraved to create a lifelike texture. Behind it, a hen watches over her chicks, symbolizing the protective nature associated with the rooster sign. The background is adorned with stalks of bamboo, a plant revered in Chinese culture for its resilience and versatility. The Chinese character for "rooster" is also incorporated into the design, along with the Perth Mint's "P" mintmark, signifying its origin.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 0.5 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: The Perth Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Perth
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II
• Reverse: Rooster with hen and chicks, bamboo stalks, and Chinese character

Investment Appeal

The 2017 1/2 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rooster coin presents a compelling case for both collectors and investors. Its 99.9% pure silver content ensures intrinsic value, while the limited mintage adds numismatic appeal. The Perth Mint's global reputation for quality and authenticity provides confidence to buyers.

For collectors, the coin's cultural significance and artistic design make it a must-have addition to any lunar series collection. The half-ounce size offers an accessible entry point for those looking to start or expand their numismatic portfolio.

Investors will appreciate the coin's potential for appreciation. Lunar series coins have historically shown strong performance in the secondary market, often commanding premiums well above their silver content. The IRA eligibility of this coin also makes it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their retirement portfolios with precious metals.

In conclusion, the 2017 1/2 oz Australia Silver Lunar Rooster coin is more than just a silver bullion product. It's a piece of cultural heritage, a work of art, and a potentially lucrative investment, all beautifully encapsulated in a half-ounce of pure silver. Whether you're drawn to its symbolic meaning, its aesthetic appeal, or its investment potential, this coin offers something truly special for the discerning numismatist.