2017 1/4 oz Great Britain Lunar Gold Coin – Rooster

As the sun rises over the misty hills of the British countryside, a familiar sound breaks the silence – the proud crow of a rooster. This age-old herald of dawn takes on new significance in 2017, as the Royal Mint honors the Year of the Rooster with a stunning addition to its Lunar Series. Steeped in the rich tapestry of Chinese zodiac tradition, this 1/4 oz gold coin bridges East and West, offering collectors and investors alike a tangible piece of cultural artistry.

The rooster, tenth in the twelve-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac, embodies the virtues of honesty, punctuality, and fidelity. In ancient China, the rooster's crow was more than just nature's alarm clock; it symbolized the dispelling of darkness and the triumph of good over evil. This belief transcended borders, finding echoes in European folklore where roosters were thought to ward off nocturnal spirits with their morning call.

The Year of the Rooster coin continues the Royal Mint's celebration of lunar new year traditions, a series that began in 2014 with the Year of the Horse. Each year, these coins have served as a testament to the cultural exchange between Britain and China, two nations with rich numismatic histories. The 2017 edition is no exception, blending British craftsmanship with Chinese symbolism to create a truly global collector's item.

Designed by British-Chinese artist Wuon-Gean Ho, this coin is a masterpiece of modern minting. Ho's artistic vision draws upon her dual heritage, infusing traditional Chinese iconography with contemporary British design sensibilities. The result is a coin that speaks to both Eastern and Western aesthetics, making it a coveted piece for collectors around the world.

For investors, the allure of this coin extends beyond its artistic merit. Gold has long been considered a safe haven asset, prized for its ability to retain value in times of economic uncertainty. The Royal Mint's reputation for excellence ensures that each coin meets the highest standards of purity and craftsmanship, making it not just a beautiful object, but a sound investment for the future.

As we delve deeper into the design and significance of this remarkable coin, we invite you to consider how it might enrich your collection or investment portfolio. Whether you're drawn to its cultural symbolism, its artistic beauty, or its potential for appreciation, the 2017 1/4 oz Great Britain Lunar Gold Coin – Rooster offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of numismatic history.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin features the fifth definitive portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, created by Royal Mint engraver Jody Clark. This regal effigy, introduced in 2015, depicts the Queen wearing the King George IV State Diadem, a crown traditionally worn for the State Opening of Parliament. The portrait is surrounded by the inscriptions "ELIZABETH II," "D.G. REG. F.D." (Dei Gratia Regina Fidei Defensor – By the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith), and the coin's denomination.

On the reverse, Wuon-Gean Ho's intricate design takes center stage. A proud rooster stands amidst a field of ten marsh daisies, a number chosen for its significance in Chinese numerology, representing perfection and completeness. The rooster's detailed plumage and alert stance capture the essence of its character – vigilant, confident, and ready to greet the new day. The Chinese character for 'rooster' is elegantly incorporated into the design, alongside the inscription "Year of the Rooster 2017," seamlessly blending Eastern and Western typography.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark
• Reverse: Rooster design by Wuon-Gean Ho, featuring ten marsh daisies and Chinese character for 'rooster'

Investment Appeal

The 2017 1/4 oz Great Britain Lunar Gold Coin – Rooster presents a compelling case for both collectors and investors. Its limited mintage ensures scarcity, a key factor in numismatic value appreciation. The coin's gold content provides a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations, making it an attractive option for portfolio diversification.

The Royal Mint's global reputation for quality and authenticity adds an extra layer of confidence for buyers. Each coin is struck to the mint's exacting standards, ensuring consistency in weight and purity. This attention to detail not only preserves the coin's intrinsic value but also enhances its appeal in the secondary market.

Furthermore, the coin's dual appeal to both Western and Eastern collectors broadens its market potential. As China's influence in the global economy continues to grow, items that celebrate Chinese culture are likely to see increased demand. This cross-cultural significance sets the Lunar Series apart from other bullion offerings, potentially leading to greater long-term value appreciation.

For the discerning investor or collector, this coin represents more than just a precious metal holding; it's a piece of art, a cultural artifact, and a sound investment rolled into one. Whether you're building a diverse precious metals portfolio or curating a collection of numismatic treasures, the 2017 Lunar Rooster coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece that is as rich in cultural significance as it is in intrinsic value.