2017 Kilo Australia Silver Lunar Rooster BU – Series II

As the sun rises over the Australian outback, a rooster's crow heralds the dawn of a new day. This timeless scene, deeply rooted in both Eastern and Western cultures, serves as the inspiration for the Perth Mint's 2017 Kilo Australia Silver Lunar Rooster. Part of the highly acclaimed Lunar Series II, this coin pays homage to the tenth animal in the Chinese zodiac cycle, symbolizing traits of honesty, punctuality, and confidence.

The Year of the Rooster holds special significance in Chinese astrology, representing those born in 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, and 2017. People born under this sign are said to be hardworking, courageous, and talented. In ancient Chinese folklore, the rooster was believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits, making it a symbol of protection and good fortune.

The rooster's importance extends beyond Chinese culture. In many Western traditions, the rooster is associated with vigilance and the announcement of a new day. This duality of symbolism makes the 2017 Kilo Australia Silver Lunar Rooster a fascinating piece for collectors and investors alike, bridging Eastern and Western cultural narratives.

The Perth Mint, known for its exceptional craftsmanship, has outdone itself with this stunning kilo silver coin. The attention to detail in the design captures the essence of the rooster's proud and noble character, while also showcasing the mint's world-renowned minting techniques. Each coin is struck from one kilogram of 99.9% pure silver, ensuring its value as both a collectible and an investment.

As part of the Lunar Series II, this coin continues a legacy that began in 1996 with the original Lunar Series. The second series, launched in 2008, has gained even more popularity among numismatists and investors worldwide. The limited mintage of these coins, combined with their annual design changes, has made them highly sought after in the precious metals market.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2017 Kilo Australia Silver Lunar Rooster features the iconic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy, used on many Commonwealth coins, lends a regal air to the piece. Surrounding the Queen's portrait are inscriptions detailing the coin's year of issue, weight, purity, and face value, affirming its status as legal tender.

On the reverse, the artistry truly shines. A proud rooster stands tall, its detailed plumage rendered with exquisite precision. Accompanying the rooster are a hen and three chicks, creating a charming family scene amidst stylized bamboo foliage and flowers. This design not only celebrates the Year of the Rooster but also embodies themes of family, prosperity, and new beginnings. The Chinese character for 'rooster' and the inscription 'Year of the Rooster' complete the reverse design, along with the Perth Mint's 'P' mintmark.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 32.15 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: The Perth Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Perth
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley
• Reverse: Rooster family scene with bamboo foliage and flowers

Investment Appeal

The 2017 Kilo Australia Silver Lunar Rooster presents a compelling investment opportunity for several reasons. Its substantial silver content, coupled with its limited mintage, positions it as a valuable asset for precious metal investors. The coin's 99.9% purity ensures its worth is closely tied to the spot price of silver, providing a hedge against economic uncertainties.

For collectors, the artistic merit and cultural significance of the Lunar Series II make this coin a must-have. The annual design changes and limited production runs have historically led to increased premiums over time, especially for earlier releases in the series. This potential for appreciation, combined with the coin's intrinsic silver value, creates a dual appeal for both numismatic enthusiasts and precious metal investors.

Moreover, the coin's IRA eligibility opens up additional investment avenues, allowing it to be included in precious metals IRAs. This feature provides investors with a unique opportunity to diversify their retirement portfolios with a tangible, culturally rich asset.

In conclusion, the 2017 Kilo Australia Silver Lunar Rooster is more than just a silver coin; it's a piece of art, a cultural artifact, and a sound investment rolled into one. Whether you're drawn to its beautiful design, fascinated by its cultural symbolism, or attracted by its investment potential, this coin offers something truly special for every discerning collector and investor.