2026 Opal Year of the Horse 1oz Silver Proof Coin

The Perth Mint is delighted to present the latest coin in the Australian Opal Lunar Series.

According to Chinese tradition, the emperor ordered a great race between all the animals on Earth to determine who should occupy 12 positions in the lunar calendar. The resilient horse occupies the seventh position in the lunar calendar as a result of the race. Those born under the sign of the Chinese Lunar Horse in 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990 and every 12th preceding year are said to be independent, charismatic and love a sense of adventure. Being passionate and spirited, they are gifted with natural charm and an ability to inspire others.

Struck by The Perth Mint from 1oz of 99.99% pure silver in proof quality, the coin is issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965.

The Perth Mint will release no more than 6,000 of the Australian Opal Lunar Series 2026 Year of the Horse 1oz Silver Proof Coin.

DESIGN

The coin’s reverse incorporates a circular panel featuring a horse detailed in pure Australian opal. Struck elements include intricate patterning with stylised depictions of marigold, a plant traditionally considered lucky for those born in the Year of the Horse.

The design also includes the inscription ‘YEAR OF THE HORSE’ and the Chinese character for ‘horse’ together with the 2026 year-date, the coin’s weight and purity, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

The obverse depicts the Dan Thorne effigy of His Majesty King Charles III in a circle with radial lines, and the monetary denomination.

PRESENTATION

The coin is housed in a classic display case with a clear lid. Packaged within an illustrated shipper, each coin is accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity.

Technical Specifications

ABOUT THE PERTH MINT

The Perth Mint, located in Perth, Western Australia, is one of the oldest and most prestigious mints in the world, with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. It was established in 1899 as a branch of Britain's Royal Mint in response to the discovery of rich gold deposits in Western Australia. Its primary purpose was to refine gold mined in the region and to mint gold sovereigns and half sovereigns for use throughout the British Empire.

The Perth Mint played a crucial role in the development of Western Australia's gold industry, providing a local facility for gold refining and coin production that significantly contributed to the economic growth of the region. Over the years, it has evolved to become a leader in the precious metals industry, offering a wide range of services including gold and silver bullion bars and coins, precious metal refining, and jewellry.

After Australia gained independence, the Perth Mint continued its operations and, in 1970, it became wholly owned by the Government of Western Australia. Since then, it has expanded its offerings to include commemorative coins, investment products, and a wealth of services for precious metals storage, management, and distribution.

Notably, The Perth Mint has set several world records, including producing the world's largest gold coin in 2011, weighing one tonne and featuring a kangaroo design. It also operates one of the largest LBMA (London Bullion Market Association) accredited gold refineries in the world.

The mint is also a significant tourist attraction, offering visitors insights into Australia's gold mining history, the chance to view Australia’s largest collection of natural gold nuggets, and live demonstrations of traditional gold pouring.

Swan Bullion Company is proud to be an authorised distributor for both The Perth Mint bullion and numismatic products.