2024 Year of the Dragon 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin

The fifth year of The Perth Mint’s highly anticipated Australian Lunar Series III coin program includes an array of superb silver coins celebrating the next animal in the zodiac, the dragon. Released as a magnificent three-coin set, and as individual 1oz and 1/2oz silver proof coins, the coins feature original artistry portraying the powerful dragon.

The dragon commands the highest respect in Chinese culture. For thousands of years, it was associated with the emperor and his descendants, symbolising wisdom, enlightenment, and benevolence. The dragon was also said to command water and rain, and by ensuring abundant harvests became a powerful symbol of wealth and good fortune.

According to Chinese tradition, the emperor ordered a great race between all the animals on Earth to determine who should occupy 12 positions on the lunar calendar. To complete the course, each animal had to cross a fast flowing river. While leading the race, the noble dragon stopped to make rain for the people, ultimately reaching the opposite bank in fifth place.

Those born under the sign of the Chinese Lunar Dragon in 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976 and every 12th preceding year, are said to be ambitious, successful, and charismatic.

Struck from 99.99% pure silver in proof quality, no more than 4,000 1/2oz coins will be released in this packaging.

The coins are issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965.

DESIGN

The coin’s reverse portrays a dragon with water cascading from its mouth, stylised waves, and a flaming pearl, a symbol of wisdom. Included in the design is the Chinese character for ‘dragon’, the inscription ‘DRAGON 2024’ and a ‘P125’ mintmark signifying The Perth Mint’s 125th anniversary.

The coin bears the Jody Clark Memorial Obverse of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II supplemented with the dates of her reign ‘1952-2022’, as well as the weight and fineness, and the monetary denomination.

PRESENTATION

Each individual coin is housed in a classic display case with a clear lid decorated with a silver geometric design. The case is packaged in a beautifully illustrated shipper portraying the story of how the dragon became an animal of the zodiac and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

The shippers of future animals in the Lunar Series III will, when arrayed together, form a diorama depicting the ancient myth of The Great Race, which tells how the zodiac came into being.

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.