1/2 oz. Perth Mint Silver Lunar Coin (Years/Designs Vary)

The 1/2 oz Silver Lunar coin from the Perth Mint is part of one of the most iconic and enduring bullion series in the modern precious metals market. Based on the animals of the Chinese Lunar Calendar, each coin honors a specific year in the 12-year zodiac cycle. This listing offers a randomly selected coin from the Lunar Series I, II, or III, depending on availability. Each coin contains one-half troy ounce of .999 or .9999 fine silver and features a brilliant design tied to Chinese culture and symbolism.

The Perth Mint launched the Lunar Series in 1996, with each new release featuring a zodiac animal that represents the corresponding year. These include the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Over the years, the Lunar Series has evolved through multiple phases. Series I ran from 1996 to 2007. Series II covered 2008 to 2019. Series III began in 2020 and is currently in production.

Each coin features a unique reverse design that changes annually. The animal is typically portrayed in a dynamic, detailed pose surrounded by inscriptions that include the animal’s name, the year of issue, the silver weight, and purity. Some designs are traditional, while others blend a modern aesthetic with cultural elements. All are executed with exceptional detail and finish.

The obverse of each coin displays the official portrait of the reigning British monarch at the time of issue. Most coins from Series I and II feature Queen Elizabeth II, while coins from Series III issued in or after 2024 now feature King Charles III. Each coin is legal tender in Australia and carries a face value of 50 cents.

Weighing half an ounce and measuring approximately 32 millimeters in diameter, the 1/2 oz Silver Lunar coin offers an accessible and affordable entry point into the Lunar series. These coins are popular with both collectors and investors, particularly those who seek fractional silver pieces or prefer smaller format coins that are easier to store or trade.

Each coin in this listing comes in Brilliant Uncirculated condition. While they are not proof coins, Perth Mint's high-quality striking process ensures crisp details, strong luster, and sharp relief. Coins may come individually packaged or in tubes, depending on quantity and year. Minor handling marks or imperfections are possible due to the nature of bullion production but do not diminish the coin's appeal or value.

The Lunar series holds strong international appeal, especially in markets with cultural ties to the Chinese zodiac. Many collectors strive to assemble a complete 12-coin set from a specific series, while others enjoy owning designs that correspond to their birth year or the birth years of family members. These coins also make meaningful and lasting gifts, especially when timed with Lunar New Year celebrations.

As Perth Mint production is limited annually for each design and weight, certain years become scarcer over time. This has led to increased collector demand and higher secondary market premiums for coins from sold-out years. Whether you receive a Rat, Dragon, or Tiger, each coin in this listing reflects the craftsmanship, purity, and cultural richness that defines the Lunar series.