2020 1/20 oz Australia Gold Lunar Mouse BU – Series III

As the Lunar New Year dawns in 2020, the Perth Mint unveils a masterpiece that captures the essence of an ancient tradition. The Year of the Mouse, heralding the start of a new 12-year zodiac cycle, is immortalized in gleaming gold, continuing a legacy that spans millennia. This diminutive yet powerful creature, revered in Chinese culture for its intelligence and adaptability, takes center stage on a coin that bridges East and West.

The mouse, or rat as it's sometimes known, holds a place of honor in Chinese mythology. Legend tells of the Jade Emperor's great race, where the clever mouse rode atop an ox to cross the finish line first, earning its premier position in the zodiac. This tale of ingenuity and resourcefulness resonates through time, embodying the qualities associated with those born under this sign.

In Chinese culture, the mouse is not merely a small rodent but a symbol of prosperity and wealth. Its ability to find food in the most challenging circumstances made it a welcome sight in homes, believed to herald abundance. This association with fortune makes the Year of the Mouse coin not just a collectible but a talisman of good luck for its owner.

The art of lunar-themed coinage is a relatively modern tradition, but it draws upon centuries of cultural exchange between East and West. As trade routes expanded in the 19th century, Chinese artisans began crafting intricate silver pieces adorned with zodiac animals for European markets. These early works laid the foundation for the modern lunar coin series that captivate collectors worldwide.

The 2020 Gold Lunar Mouse coin continues this rich tradition, melding ancient symbolism with modern minting techniques. Each detail, from the whiskers of the mouse to the stalks of wheat it navigates, is rendered with exquisite precision. This artistry not only honors the cultural significance of the zodiac but also showcases the Perth Mint's commitment to excellence in numismatic craftsmanship.

As we delve into the Year of the Mouse, this coin serves as more than a collectible; it's a tangible connection to a cycle of time that has guided lives for generations. Whether acquired for its artistic merit, cultural significance, or as an investment in precious metals, it stands as a testament to the enduring allure of lunar-themed numismatics.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, a design created by Jody Clark. This portrait, the sixth to grace Australian coinage, depicts the monarch with regal poise, wearing the Royal Diamond Diadem. The Queen's image is surrounded by inscriptions detailing the coin's specifications and legal tender status, anchoring it firmly in the realm of modern sovereign currency.

On the reverse, the star of the show takes center stage. A meticulously crafted mouse is portrayed amidst stalks of wheat, a nod to the creature's agricultural associations and its reputation for finding sustenance even in lean times. The mouse's pose suggests alertness and curiosity, capturing the essence of its zodiac attributes. The Chinese character for "mouse" is incorporated into the design, bridging linguistic and cultural divides. The inscription "MOUSE 2020" and the Perth Mint's "P" mintmark complete the composition, ensuring its authenticity and place in the lunar series.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Portrays the Jody Clark effigy of Queen Elizabeth II
• Reverse: Features a mouse among wheat stalks, with Chinese character and year inscription

Investment Appeal

The 2020 1/20 oz Australia Gold Lunar Mouse coin 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 economic uncertainty, while its artistic design and cultural significance offer potential for premium growth beyond mere metal value.

For collectors, this coin represents the first issue in the Lunar Series III, making it a cornerstone piece for those assembling a complete set. Its small size makes it an accessible entry point for new collectors or those looking to diversify their holdings without significant outlay.

Investors will appreciate the liquidity of a globally recognized series backed by the reputation of the Perth Mint. The dual appeal to both Western and Eastern markets broadens its potential buyer base, potentially enhancing long-term value. As part of a larger lunar series, it benefits from sustained collector interest year after year, often seeing increased demand as the series progresses and earlier issues become harder to acquire.

In essence, the 2020 Gold Lunar Mouse coin is more than just a precious metal investment; it's a piece of cultural artistry with the potential for numismatic appreciation. Whether as a stand-alone purchase or part of a diverse portfolio, it offers a unique blend of intrinsic and collectible value, making it a worthy consideration for the discerning numismatist and investor alike.