Product Description

• 2nd issue of the renowned Lunar I Series by the Perth Mint
• 1 ounce of 999.9 pure gold in brilliant uncirculated quality
• Limited mintage: 30,000 pieces worldwide
• Final mintage: 13,709 pieces worldwide (without guarantee)
• Delivered in a coin capsule for optimal protection

The Lunar I Year of the Ox 1997 gold coin is among the most sought-after issues of the prestigious Australian Lunar Series. It combines the highest minting artistry with cultural depth and exceptional rarity, appealing to both collectors and investors at an international top level.

Product Details

Precision, Purity, and Highest Minting Quality

Struck from a full ounce of 999.9 gold, this issue embodies the uncompromising quality philosophy of the Perth Mint. The exact weight of one troy ounce gives the coin a balanced presence that is appreciated both in physical handling and in valuation on the precious metals market. With a diameter of 32.10 millimeters, the surface offers ample space for detailed depictions and clear contours. The brilliant uncirculated quality impresses with even surfaces, clean relief edges, and a silky sheen that gently changes depending on the light. Each coin is produced under strictly controlled conditions and is protected immediately after minting to preserve its flawless condition permanently. Its authenticity as a government-guaranteed gold coin is confirmed by the face value of 100 dollars as well as its issuance by the Australian mint.

Motif and Design

Expressive Symbolism in the Finest Engraving

The obverse depicts a powerful ox looking over its shoulder, radiating strength and endurance, and quiet determination. The portrayal appears calm yet dynamic, as the animal’s posture suggests movement without executing it. Fine lines in the fur, clearly defined muscle areas, and the harmonious balance between polished and matte surfaces create a vivid interplay of light and shadow.

The motif is complemented by the Chinese character for the ox, which underscores the cultural origin of the zodiac sign and adds additional depth to the design.

The reverse shows the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II based on the design by Raphael Maklouf. The effigy is marked by clear dignity and is accompanied by information on face value and fineness, creating a formal balance between artistic aspiration and sovereign authority.

Historical and Cultural Background

The Year of the Ox as a Symbol of Constancy

In the Chinese zodiac, the ox stands for reliability, diligence, and inner strength. People born in a Year of the Ox are considered patient, responsible, and goal-oriented. These qualities are deliberately reflected in the coin’s design, giving it a symbolic message that extends far beyond its material value.

The Lunar I Series of the Perth Mint was conceived as a twelve-part sequence, with each year dedicated to one of the zodiac signs. The 1997 issue marks the second release of the series and thus occupies an early and historically significant position. This early phase of the series is particularly sought after by collectors, as it documents the origin of a coin line that is now established worldwide.

Australia, as the country of origin, combines Western minting technology with Asian symbolism. This cultural bridge makes the Lunar coins internationally understandable while at the same time unique in their appeal.

Exclusivity and Investment Value

Rare Gold Coin with Long-Term Potential

The exceptionally low mintage of just 13,709 pieces gives this gold coin a level of rarity that is unmatched within the Lunar I Series. Collectors value such key pieces, as they often set the benchmark for completeness and quality within a collection. Investors, in turn, recognize in the combination of fine gold, limited quantity, and international demand a stable foundation for long-term value preservation.

As a sovereign gold coin with a government guarantee, it is tradable worldwide and enjoys high trust in the precious metals market. The continuously increasing demand for early Lunar issues underlines its attractiveness on the secondary market.

Secure one of the few remaining examples of this strictly limited gold coin before it permanently disappears into private collections.

Special Features

Tangible Substance and Timeless Presence

A full ounce of gold conveys a sense of value and durability from the very first contact. The balanced weight ensures a pleasant feel, while the smooth edge design and precisely struck surfaces make the quality immediately tangible. Particularly with gold coins of this weight class, international standardization has a positive effect on price stability and resale capability.

What Makes This Coin Special?

As the lowest-mintage issue of the entire Lunar I Series, this gold coin combines maximum rarity with iconic symbolism and international market acceptance.

Storage

At Superior Coins, your coin collection is especially dear to us. That’s why we developed our Superior Boxes with a unique, multifunctional inlay tailored perfectly to your needs. You can choose to store the inlay safely and space-efficiently in our compact Security Box, ideal for safe-deposit lockers, or place it in one of our elegantly designed presentation boxes.

This way, your collection remains protected in your private safe while allowing you to enjoy the beautiful display of your valuable pieces at any time with style and pride. Discover the variety of our high-quality boxes and experience how presentation and security come together perfectly at Superior Coins.

Delivery and Service

Decide for yourself whether your coin will be delivered in the original case or in one of our exclusive Superior Boxes. The numbered certificate of authenticity fits securely in both packaging options. Upon request, we can store your Superior Box in our in-house, fully insured vault until your collection is complete. Alternatively, you are welcome to send us your coins; we will place them with the utmost care into the designated Superior Box and gladly assist you in completing your collection.

Personal Support & Maximum Security

We provide you with comprehensive and personal advice at any time, to jointly assemble the optimal overall package tailored to your individual goals and wishes. You can also make use of our subscription service so that you never miss a new release in your collection.

Of course, you will receive all relevant documents from us, including meaningful images for your insurance, directly upon delivery.

Rely on our many years of experience, maximum reliability, and state-of-the-art security standards. Your valuable pieces are in the best hands with Superior Coins. We accompany you with the greatest care and personal service on your path to a unique and value-retaining collection.

FAQ

Your Questions, Competently Answered

• What is the mintage of this gold coin?
  The worldwide mintage is just 13,709 pieces, making it the lowest within the entire Lunar I Series.
• How is the coin protected during delivery?
  The gold coin is delivered in a protective coin capsule that permanently preserves its proof condition.
• What is the significance of the 1997 issue within the series?
  The year marks the second issue of the Lunar I Series and, due to its rarity, is considered one of the most sought-after key dates.
• Is this coin suitable as an exclusive gift?
  The combination of cultural symbolism, precious metal value, and limited mintage makes it a particularly high-quality and meaningful gift.