2025 Year of the Snake 1/2oz Silver Coin

This magnificent silver coin celebrates the Year of the Snake, the sixth of twelve animals associated with the ancient Chinese lunar calendar.

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. To complete the course, each animal had to cross a fast flowing river. In pursuit of the fifth placed dragon, the horse was unnerved by the sight of a snake wrapped around its hoof. As it reared in fright, the snake uncoiled itself and slithered over the line to claim sixth place.

Those born under the sign of the Chinese Lunar Snake in 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989 and every 12th preceding year are said to be wise, intelligent, independent, and charming. Being passionate and articulate, they are also thought to make great leaders.

Meticulously struck from 1/2oz of 99.99% pure silver, this coin is issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965 and has no mintage limit.

DESIGN

The coin’s reverse portrays a coiled snake on the ground beneath hanging leaves. Included in the design is the Chinese character for ‘snake’, the inscription ‘SNAKE 2025’, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

This is the first lunar coin’s obverse to bear the Dan Thorne effigy of His Majesty King Charles III, as well as the weight, fineness, and the monetary denomination.

The reverse of all coins includes a security feature in the form of a micro-engraved letter within the design. Intended to make the coin significantly more difficult to counterfeit, it is only detectable under a magnifying glass.

PRESENTATION

Each bullion coin is presented in a protective acrylic capsule.

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.