Feng Shui translates into English as ‘wind-water’ and is one of the Five Arts of Chinese Metaphysics and is a philosophical system of harmonizing everyone with the surrounding environment. The practice of feng shui analyses architecture in metaphoric terms of “invisible forces” that bind the universe, earth, and humanity together, known as qi (pronounced Chi).

Historically, feng shui was widely used to orient buildings—often spiritually significant structures such as tombs, but also dwellings and other structures—in an auspicious manner. Depending on the particular style of feng shui being used, an auspicious site could be determined by reference to local features such as bodies of water, stars, or a compass. While it isn’t known exactly when the concept was first practised, tomb findings dating back over 6,000 years show symbolism almost identical in nature and implementation.

A very popular series from the New Zealand Mint, the Feng Shui range kicked off in 2012 with a beautiful design depicting Koi carp. Since then there’s been an equally well done 2013 Cranes coin, a relatively weak 2014 Horses design, and most recently for 2015, Elephants. The Phoenix is thus the fifth coin in the series and the first time there have been two silver releases in a year. It looks a nice design, certainly better than the last two and we’d imagine collectors of the series won’t be disappointed. Packaging remains the same, truly first class.

There’ll no doubt be a gold issue at some time in the future as the mint is gradually working its way from the beginning with reissuing the coins in an uncoloured ¼oz 0.999 gold format. The first three ( Koi, Cranes, Horses) are already out and it’s likely the fourth will drop later this year, but it’s undetermined if the Phoenix design will hit this year or not. We’re obviously getting to the point when a simultaneous release of gold and silver will happen, perhaps for the next coin on from this one. As nice as these coloured silver coins are, the gold ones are even better, especially the Horses design that has improved immeasurably.

Available from the NZ Mint website from 27 May, and from site sponsors Minted-UK on pre-order from tomorrow.

MINTS DESCRIPTION

Legend tells that the Phoenix was a supernatural creature. Every five hundred years it returned to its birthplace where it died and was reborn, rising from the ashes to live again.

In Feng Shui, the Phoenix as Queen of all birds represents Yin or female energies. It may evoke images of resilience, strength, and transformation, as the Phoenix is able to rise from its own ashes to reach greater heights. The powerful energies of the Phoenix will bring strength and positive transformation into your life.

REVERSE: This features the moment of rebirth, as the transformed Phoenix rises up into the air. Around the bird, auspicious Peony flowers are engraved against a proof quality polished background.

OBVERSE: This features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

PACKAGING: The Feng Shui Phoenix 1 oz Silver coin is packaged inside a stylish lacquered inner coin case and a printed outer box. The Certificate of Authenticity is placed inside the packaging.

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