2019 1/2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Pig BU – Series II

Every twelve years, the world celebrates the arrival of the Chinese zodiac’s twelfth sign: the Year of the Pig. In Chinese folklore, the pig is revered for more than just its plump, good-natured appearance—it is a timeless emblem of prosperity, contentment, and the fulfillment that comes at the end of a long journey. During centuries of dynastic rule, families would weave tales of the pig’s honest and diligent character, associating the animal with happiness, abundance, and a zest for life’s pleasures.

The Year of the Pig is often a time of joy and festivity, marking the culmination of the zodiac cycle and inviting optimism for the years to come. In 2019, the Perth Mint continued its storied tradition of honoring this cultural legacy by introducing a coin that brings to life the pig’s enduring symbolism. For numismatists, the Lunar Series II coins represent more than precious metal—they embody age-old beliefs, artistry, and the preservation of cultural narratives that have withstood the test of time.

Throughout Asia, the pig is celebrated not only for its association with wealth and luck but for its easygoing, sociable nature. Ancient texts often attributed honesty and generosity to those born in the Year of the Pig, qualities that earned this zodiac sign a beloved place in both rural and urban communities. Coins honoring the pig are therefore imbued with a sense of culmination and good fortune, making them powerful talismans for collectors and a meaningful link to a rich cultural past.

The 2019 release from the Perth Mint also stands as a beacon of modern numismatic artistry. Each year, new designs are meticulously crafted to reflect not just the zodiac animal, but the unique emotions and hopes associated with the year itself. Collectors worldwide anticipate these annual unveilings, eager to secure a piece of tradition shaped through the lens of contemporary engraving excellence.

The story of the Lunar Series II is ultimately one of cross-cultural reverence and impeccable craftsmanship. From the symbolism of the pig to the Perth Mint’s commitment to artistic innovation, this coin offers collectors a window into both ancient wisdom and the evolving landscape of modern numismatics.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin features the regal likeness of Queen Elizabeth II, as envisioned by the renowned sculptor Ian Rank-Broadley. This effigy, familiar to seasoned collectors, anchors the coin in the tradition of Commonwealth coinage and underscores its official status as legal tender within Australia. Encircling the Queen’s portrait are the inscriptions of her name, the country, and the face value, lending an air of distinction and authenticity.

On the reverse, artist Ing Ing Jong has captured a vivid tableau that resonates with cultural depth. At the center stands an adult pig, rendered in a lifelike and dignified stance, accompanied by four playful piglets. The scene unfolds against a backdrop of stylized foliage and a blooming peony flower—a powerful Chinese symbol connoting affluence, good luck, and harmony. The careful inclusion of elements such as the cabbage patch and naturalistic details weaves together themes of abundance and familial prosperity, elevating the coin’s narrative appeal far beyond mere decoration.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley, with inscriptions denoting her name, the issuing country, and the face value.
• Reverse: Showcases an adult pig with four piglets amid a lush landscape of stylized foliage and a blooming peony flower, a symbol of wealth and harmony, designed by Ing Ing Jong.

Investment Appeal

The 2019 1/2 oz Australia Gold Lunar Pig BU – Series II blends the timeless allure of .9999 fine gold with the global recognition of the Perth Mint’s Lunar Series II. Its limited mintage and exquisite artistic execution ensure enduring desirability among collectors, while its gold content provides intrinsic value and liquidity. The coin’s culturally resonant design—paired with meticulous minting standards—strengthens its appeal as both a tangible asset and a legacy piece, offering a unique confluence of artistry, tradition, and investment security for discerning numismatists.