From September, an onrush of Chinese Lunar Calendar coins starts to hit the market. We’ve seen an easing off a little after the mania of the Dragon year of 2012, but that doesn’t mean Horse coins are few and far between.The elephant in the room remains the Perth Mints range of bullion and proof coins that every year outsell all the others combined. We’ll keep this page updated as the year progresses. There will be much more to come. We’re sure some of the independant mints will likewise have offerings ranging from beautiful to awful. Check back regularly or get on board with one of the update feeds.
Tabs with an asterix are latest updates. If you notice coins missing, please let us know. With the site growing we have less time to trawl for the oddities.
The silver 2014 Horse coin carries on the tradition of having a different design to the gold. The reverse has an image of two horses relaxing and grazing. The obverse is the same portrait of Queen Elizabeth II that adorns the gold coin. Available in sizes from 1/2 oz up to 10kg, the 1/2, 1 & 2 oz coins are available from the 2nd September, with the others from the 1st October. The coin to get remains the 1 0z with its limit of 300,000 pieces. The 10 kg has a limit of 200, down from 500 although only the Dragon ever broke 200 anyway.
Just released is the annual Typeset Collection. Possibly the best way to collect a set of the standard variants, this one contains four, one-ounce coins. Included are a proof, bullion, gilded and coloured versions in a nice box. The gilded, proof and coloured versions are all available in individual packaging as well. The coloured coin is also available in a 1/2 ounce variant.
The gold coin is also now available in a coloured version. There are 1/10oz, 1/4oz and 10z sizes, all coming in good quality boxes and with mintages of 5,000, 5,000 and 3,000 respectively. Available now.
This is the one-kilo “Gemstone Edition”. Basically a coloured one-kilo coin with a white diamond set into an eye. A mintage of 5,000 maximum has been set.
HIGH-RELIEF PROOF SILVER
Our favourite of this month’s horse coins, a simple idea, just take a 1oz silver round, reduce its diameter, thicken it up and then strike it a bit harder. We’re sure it’s more complicated than that, but it looks great and has a tight run of just 7,500 pieces. Diameter is 32.6mm, thickness is 6mm and the Tom Vaughan designed coin is 31,1g of 0.999 silver.
FOUR-COIN RECTANGULAR COIN SET
Another staple of the Perth Mints lunar coin range are the rectangluar coins in the display frame. These show images of four different coloured horses set against a mountain backdrop. Viewed together, the background of the coins merge together to form a single backdrop. Issued as legal tender under the authority of the Government of the Cook Islands, the Raphael Maklouf effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2014 year-date and the monetary denomination are shown on the obverse of each coin.
Each 0.999 silver coin weighs 32.135g and is 47.6 x 27.6 mm in size. Designed by Natasha Muhl, the set has a limited mintage of just 3,000 pieces.
BABY HORSE COIN
Definitely one for the kids, the Baby Horse coin is 1/2oz of 0.999 silver, with a maximum mintage of 7,500 pieces. Designed by Ing Ing Jong, the coin is housed in a display case and illustrated shipper, and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity. The coin is issued as legal tender under the Government of the Cook Islands. The Raphael Maklouf effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2014 year-date and the monetary denomination are shown on the coin’s obverse.
YEAR OF THE HORSE 1/10OZ SQUARE GOLD 10-COIN SET
This set first debuted a couple of months ago in China. Here we have a set of ten square coins, issued for Australia, each made from 3.1g of 0.999 gold. The images were painted by the 18th century Jesuit Missionary artist, Giuseppe Castiglione, who spent the last fifty years of his life painting for the Chinese Imperial Court, and whose work is widely regarded today. The obverse featured Queen Elizabeth II, the currency denomination, name, weight and year. Only 1,500 sets will be minted, so quite a nice collectable.
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage, pcs |
15 DOLLARS (AUS) | 0.9999 gold | 3.111 | 14.5 x 14.5 | PROOF COLOURED | Y – Y | 1,500 SETS |
YEAR OF THE HORSE 1OZ SQUARE SILVER 10-COIN SET
Here we have the same images as the gold set, but as you’d expect given the silver coins have five times the surface area, are much better presented in our opinion. Maximum mintage of 5,000. Each ten-coin collection is housed in a stylish case, accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage, pcs |
1 DOLLAR (AUS) | 0.999 silver | 31.135 | 33.2 x 33.2 | PROOF COLOURED | Y – Y | 5,000 SETS |
ANDA SHOW 2OZ COLOURED SILVER
The Perth Mint has a long tradition of releasing special coins for events, including the recent Kangaroo for the World Money Fair, and the St.Petersburg coin for the Melbourne ANDA show. The coins are usually of a low mintage, under 2,000 pieces, and are often unique designs. Usually they’re a variation on a theme, that theme being the lunar series and there are many different coloured variants that can be picked up as a result. This time it’s a fairly simple, but quite collectible 2oz coloured Lunar Horse with a very tight 1,000 piece mintage. The images below are of he 10z proof coloured silver and the 2oz carries the same artwork.
[himage]SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage, pcs |
2 DOLLARS (AUS) | 0.999 silver | 62.27 | 55.60 | COLOURED | Y -Y | 1,000 |
5oz PROOF SILVER
Simply a proof version of the 5 oz coin. It’s probably the nicest way to buy a Perth Mint Lunar as the proof coins are better looking than the bullion and the 5 oz is a great size at 65.6mm in diameter.
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage, pcs |
8 DOLLARS (AUS) | 0.999 silver | 155.673 | 65.60 | PROOF | Y – Y | 5,000 |
Described by Downies as “..the 2014 $8 Year of the Horse Gold-Plated 5 oz Silver Proof! Capturing the strength, movement and grace of this majestic animal, the reverse is distinguished by a magnificent design of three horses in full-stride, complemented by a distinguished representation of the traditional Chinese character for the word ‘horse’.
According to the Lunar Zodiac tradition, those born in the Year of the Horse are often seen as generous, fun and decisive, with a relaxed attitude, a sharp mind and a penchant for travel.
Measuring a gigantic 65mm in diameter, and struck from a full five troy ounces of .999 fine silver, this official $8 legal tender issue forms a truly magnificent tribute to the upcoming year in the Chinese Lunar Calendar. Selectively gold-plated, to highlight the powerful galloping horse motif, the coin is beautifully presented within a superbly crafted timber case, and is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity confirming the extremely exclusive nature of this memorable release.”
Described by us as a really nice design, huge, well packaged and one to get if you can.
Available in a one ounce, reverse proof format, this 0.999 silver, 38.6mm coin carries a denomination of NZ$5.
Also recently released are proof and antique finish versions with some tight mintages, as well as coloured and gilded versions. They’ve also inspired Treasures of Oz to release a Creatures of Myth & Legend series starting with gorgeous Unicorn and Pegasus coins.
PROOF FINISH, MINTAGE 2,500
ANTIQUE FINISH, MINTAGE 2,000
REVERSE PROOF FINISH, MINTAGE 50,000
BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED FINISH, MINTAGE 250,000
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight (g) | Size (mm) | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage |
5 DOLLARS (NZ) | 0.999 silver | 31.14 | 38.61 | BULLION | N – N | 250,000 |
The first is the Prestige Lunar Series and the 1oz and5oz silver coins will feature the ‘Kicking Horse’ design, popular in Chinese art during the Ming Emperor Chénghuá period 1465-87. The coin will be presented in a leatherette case. The 65.1mm, 5 oz proof-like coin has a limit of 5,000 and a $10 AUD denomination. The 40mm 1 oz proof-like coin has a limit of 10,000 and a $1 AUD denomination.
The Prestige Lunar is also available in a 38.74mm, 1 0z format with a 1,500 mintage limit. A 5 oz coin is available on a Made to Order basis.
Unlike the Perth Mint, the Royal Australian Mint has different designs on its one-kilo silver coin than the rest of the range. It will feature the ‘Eight Horses’ of Má Wáng, renowned for having carried the fifth ruler of the Zhou Dynasty ,King Mu 1023-957 BCE. The coin will be presented in a leatherette case with a certificate of authenticity. At 99.95mm, this proof-like coin has plenty of space to show off the design, but only 1,500 will be minted.
A more affordable coin for most, The 1/10 oz gold proof coin comes packaged in a wooden coin box and is limited to only 2,500 pieces. It’s 17.53mm in diameter and has a denomination of $10 AUD.
Lastly, there is a small 11.66g proof silver coin with a 10,000 mintage. It’s 25mm in diameter and carries a $1 AUD denomination.
Top left and centre are the one-kilo coins. Both the gold and silver are 0.9999 pure metal and of a proof quality, designed by the Three Degrees Creative Group. They come packaged in an Asian inspired case. The silver kilo has a diameter of 102.1mm and a mintage of a scant 388. The gold has a diameter of 101.6mm and a microscopic mintage of just 18 pieces. Both coins carry a significant price above spot so maybe those mintage figures are realistic after all.
Bottom left is the one ounce 0.9999 silver proof with a matt horse design by Aries Cheung over a mirror background. It’s 38mm wide and has a denomination of $15 CAN. Mintage is 28,888 pieces.
Next to that is the gold version of the same design. Weighing 11.84g of 18-karat gold (therefore having a pure gold content of 1/4 oz), this 28mm diameter coin has a mintage of 2,500 pieces.
Top right is the latest in the beautiful lotus lunar series. This one lacks a little detail compared to previous issues but is a successful work by the Three Degrees Creative Group regardless. It has an odd weight of 26.7g (0.9999 pure) silver and has a mintage of 28,888.
Finally at bottom right is the baby of the group, the 1/2 oz specimen-finish 0.9999 silver designed by Canadian Artist, Simon Ng. We like this one and with a mintage of 58,888, it should be easy to pick up.
This one, while a little gaudy, appears to be very well done.. The packaging looks different in a good way as well. Available from Powercoin.
On the obverse of the coin, a Chinese depiction of a Horse, inspired by ancient potteries, is shown within a decorative frieze. The Chinese ideogram symbolizes the year of the cheval.
On the reverse, the portrait of Jean de La Fontaine is surrounded by the 12 animals that make up the Chinese zodiac.
1/4 OUNCE GOLD
22 GRAMME SILVER
1 OUNCE GOLD
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage, pcs |
10 EURO | 0.900 silver | 22.2 | 37 | PROOF | Y – Y | 10,000 |
50 EURO | 0.920 gold | 8.45 | 22 | PROOF | Y – Y | 1,000 |
200 EURO | 0.999 gold | 31.104 | 37 | PROOF | Y – Y | 500 |
TOP LEFT: Palau, $2, 0.9999 silver, 15.55g, 33mm diameter. 3000 mintage.
TOP RIGHT: Niue Island, $2, 0.925 silver, 15.55g, 38.6mm diameter.
BOTTOM LEFT: Niue Island, $2, 0.925 silver, 26.15g, Orlovsky Trotter. Issued by International Coin House.
BOTTOM RIGHT: Palau, $5, 0.999 silver, 31.1g, 35mm diameter. 3000 mintage. HORSE HIGH RELIEF Chinese Lunar Year Silver Coin ,gold plated 5$ Palau 2014, 1 oz .999 PURE SILVER Struck on an extra thick 1oz .999 fine silver flan, twice as thick as a standard 1oz Silver Proof, this exquisite coin is defined by the incredible depth and detail of the designs. Standing out prominently from the pristine mirror fields, the new Horse reverse motif looks amazing when struck to this exceptional standard. This coin is enriched by gold plated details. The design for this 2014 Year of the Horse (1oz) silver coin consists of a representation of a horse ,around the coin a gilded decoration. The coin includes the inscription “Year of the Horse”, the year of issue and the Chinese symbol for the word ‘horse’. The coin obverse depicts the Palau State Coat of Arms
The last coin looks the better of the four in our opinion.
A gold piece is also now on the market. Weighing in at a solid 155g of fine gold, it’s a beautiful piece, although strangely enough we still prefer the silver version. Coming packaged in a luxury box with an acyrilic frame to display the coin, there are only 25 pieces in existence so if you want it and you have the $13,000+ laying around, don’t hang about.
COOK ISLANDS MOTHER OF PEARL GOLD 5oz
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight (g) | Size (mm) | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage |
1,000 DOLLARS (NZD) | 0.999 gold | 155.52 | 65 | PROOF | Y – Y | 25 |
Firstly a 1/2 oz 0.999 silver coin in a proof/coloured finish. This coin face classically portrays an ethereal image of a white horse illustrating its energy, power, intelligence and beauty. This striking colour image is encircled by a traditional engraved border design, the Chinese character for Horse, and the engraved words 2014 Year of the Horse. Issued under Niue, this 32mm, milled edge coin has a maximum mintage of 5,000. It’s got a really nice image on it. The 2014 Year of the Horse 1/2 oz Silver Coin is packaged in an attractive Perspex display case, which sits inside a red leather imitation box. The inner packaging is covered by a pure white sleeve, which matches the colour of the horse on the coin. When opened, the coin and Certificate of Authenticity are displayed.
Secondly, a 40.7mm 1 oz coin similar in principle but with a pair of horses on the reverse. This depicts a powerful image of a pair of stunning, pure white horses, captured mid stride in high quality colour. Sunken into this image is the Chinese character for Horse. This image is set against a mirror finish background and encircled by an ornately engraved border design including the words 2014 Year of the Horse. Again, the mintage will be limited to 5,000 and as usual with the NZ Mint, the packaging, a high-gloss wooden box, looks superb. The 2014 Year of the Horse 1 oz Silver Coin is packaged inside an elegant wooden coloured, lacquered coin box. This sits inside a pure white outer case, matching the colour of the white horses of this coin. The Certificate of Authenticity is displayed inside the inner packaging.
Lastly, is a 1 oz silver coin of 40.5mm in which a horse in side profile is fully gilded. This features a selectively plated horse proudly captured in mid stride with the wind billowing through its mane and tail. This dramatic image is set against a proof finish background, encircled by a traditional Chinese border design, the engraved words Year of the Horse 2014, and the Chinese character for Horse.Yet again, a 5,000 maximum mintage. The 2014 Year of the Horse 1 oz Gold Plated Silver Coin, is beautifully presented inside an oval, golden Ingot case. This sits inside an exquisite, gold toned outer pack. A Certificate of Authenticity is supplied inside a red envelope within the Ingot case.
Comes in a nice box with a Certificate of Authenticity for one of only 888 pieces to be minted. At banging on 500 EUR though, it is quite an expensive coin for a three-ouncer.
3-COIN PAVE SET
Each year the African state of Rwanda issues a pair of 3-coin lunar sets, one called the ‘Pave’ set and one the ‘3D’ set. The Pave set is named after the traditional method of covering an object in hundreds of tiny gems. The end result is very much an acquired taste, but the sets have been attracting a premium so there’s obviously a market for them somewhere.
Here’s the follow up to the Rwandan Pave Snake. Comprising three 20g, 40mm, proof 0.999 coins, all presented in a fancy box with a certificate, the set has a limited mintage of 1,888 and carries a denomination of 500 Francs.
These coins are unusual in that they have a high-relief animal on the front that has areas entirely covered in tiny gems. They are a little ostentatious, so may be a matter of taste.
3-COIN 3D PRESTIGE SET
The 3D set basically takes the concept of high-relief to an extreme and this years Lunar Horse set has gone further than ever before. Each coin, despite the huge differences in shape, weighs in at one-ounce of fine silver, made possible by a process they call “Full Dimensional Minting”. This special high relief embossing is a combination of casting and stamping techniques in which each coin is manually readjusted in several steps. By careful drum polishing, the surface of each piece is machined so that the partly matt, partly shiny surfaces give the sculptural motif even more depth and character.
Designed to represent the Horses of Vitality (horse in full sprint and rose-gold plated), Generosity (gilded on a pile of coins) and Liberty (hand-finished patina), they come packaged in some very fancy packaging, namely a laquered wooden case with a black internal acrylic base. Each coin is wrapped in yellow silk, the colour of the Chinese Emperor.
The set sells for aroun € 600 and is available any time now. Whether you think it’s a coin or not, they’re certainly unique.
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight (g) | Size (mm) | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage |
500 FRANCS (FRW) | 0.999 silver | 31.1 x 3 | 38.61 | ANTIQUE | Y – Y | 1,888 |
The magnificent horse is illustrated in an awe-inspiring pose on the obverse side of the coin: rearing on its hind legs, seemingly at the brink of take-off. This burst of vigor and forward-looking spirit hints at the beginning of many good things to come, in your career or life.
The horse is accompanied by a cascade of alluring camellia flowers in full bloom. They come in many vibrant colours and just like the horse’s unyielding resilience, these flowers flourish even in cold weathers; upholding brilliance no matter the circumstance.
The coin’s reverse side embodies the carvings of the Guia Fortress – in commemoration of Macau’s maritime, military and missionary past. The fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also a popular tourist attraction of Macau.
The five ounce silver is 65mm of 0.999 silver with a mintage limited to 2,000 pieces.
The one ounce silver is 40.7mm of 0.999 silver and is limited to 8,000 pieces.
The 0.9999 gold coin has a maximum mintage of 5,000 pieces and is a fraction under 22mm wide.
Issued by International Coin House.
As in previous years, it’s a 20.5g coin made from 0.999 silver with a diameter of 38.6mm. Mintage is down to only 2,500 pieces from the Rabbit’s 6,000. Last years Snake was available in a beautiful display box but we’re currently unsure if that will remain for this year, but the COA will. Should be at dealers just after the middle of November.
Also from Treasures of Oz and minted at the Mint of Norway, comes the well known Yin & Yang series that for us, reached it’s peak with the beautiful rabbit coin. This one is also well done but carries on with the annoying changes in spec. The Horse, like last years Snake, is 0.925 Sterling Silver, whereas the Rabbit & Tiger were 0.999. The Horse has a mintage of 5,000, whereas the Tiger & Rabbit were 10,000 each, the Dragon 4,000 and the snake 5,000. All are proof finish and divided into two distinct pieces, each half being a seperate coin though they are joined. They all retain a Perth-Mint busting diameter of 49.9mm which is huge for a one-ounce coin.
They do come in a beautiful box with a Certificate of Authenticity. Also expected around mid-November. Another well detailed and well minted coin.
A huge range of coins released by the Chinese Mint to celebrate the Year of the Horse. It’s an okay selection so take a look.
First up are the standard round coins which we think are some of the better ones with a nice clean, dynamic look.
1. 300 YUAN, SILVER 0.999, 1kg, 100mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 10,000 MINTAGE
2. 10 YUAN, SILVER 0.999, 1oz, 40mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 200,000 MINTAGE
3. 50 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 1/10oz, 18mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 120,000 MINTAGE
4. 100,000 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 10kg, 180mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 18 MINTAGE
5. 20,000 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 2kg, 110mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 100 MINTAGE
The Lotus coin carries the same design as the round above, which again is nice.
6. 10 YUAN, SILVER 0.999, 1oz, 40mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 60,000 MINTAGE
7. 200 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 1/2oz, 27mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 8,000 MINTAGE
8. 10,000 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 1kg, 100mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 118 MINTAGE
The coloured coins have always had a more symbolic design and the horse is no different.
9. 50 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 1/10oz, 18mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 120,000 MINTAGE
10. 2,000 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 5oz, 60mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 3,000 MINTAGE
11. 10 YUAN, SILVER 0.999, 1oz, 40mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 220,000 MINTAGE
12. 50 YUAN, SILVER 0.999, 5oz, 70mm DIAMETER, PROOF, 30,000 MINTAGE
Fourthly we have the rectangular coins and these are only available in a five-ounce format.
13. 2,000 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 5oz, 64x40mm SIZE, PROOF, 2,000 MINTAGE
14. 50 YUAN, SILVER 0.999, 5oz, 80x50mm SIZE, PROOF, 20,000 MINTAGE
Lastly we have the fan-shaped coins, the gold version having a unique size of 1/3rd ounce.
15. 150 YUAN, GOLD 0.999, 1/3oz, 51mm OUTER RADIUS, 36mm INNER RADIUS, PROOF, 30,000 MINTAGE
16. 10 YUAN, SILVER 0.999, 1oz, 85mm OUTER RADIUS, 60mm INNER RADIUS, PROOF, 80,000 MINTAGE
The second wave of coins has been announced and details are scarce (may be medallions);
17. COLOURED SET, TWO COINS IN BOX. ONE 30g, ONE 3g, SILVER 0.999 PROOF, 5,000 MINTAGE
18. GOLD/SILVER SET
3g Gold/30g Silver (18mm/40mm), MINTAGE 2,500
6g Gold/30g Silver (22mm/40mm), MINTAGE 1,000
50g Gold/30g Silver (40mm/40mm), MINTAGE 500
100g Gold/50g Silver (50mm/50mm), MINTAGE 300
300g Gold (70mm), MINTAGE 30
1000g Gold (90mm), MINTAGE 9
The rush to get Lunar coins out continues, and even though the sheer numbers of September have dropped off, it’s clear the market hasn’t finished with the concept yet.
Latest to get in on the act is the Moscow Mint with this design for the Bank of Russia. Containing an ounce of silver, the 0.925 coin has a total weight of 33.94g, is 39mm in diameter and 3.3mm thick. This 3 Ruble, proof-quality piece has a maximum mintage of 20,000.
It’s a decent enough design y S. A. Kozlovand has that cool Russian double-headed eagle obverse.
DESCRIPTION
OBVERSE
in the centre – the emblem of the Bank of Russia [the two-headed eagle with wings down, under it – the semicircular inscription “БАНК РОССИИ” (BANK OF RUSSIA)] framed by a circle of dots and inscriptions along the rim – on top: “ТРИ РУБЛЯ” (THREE RUBLES), below: to the left – indications of the precious metal and its fineness, in the centre – the date: “2014 г.” (2014), to the right – the fine metal content and the mint trade mark.
REVERSE
in the circle framed by the entire rim to the left – the contour picture of the horse’s head, to the left – the matted image of the half-moon.
It’s a single design, available in gold and silver, and in a tight range of sizes, just 1oz and 5oz silver, and 1/10oz and 1oz gold. They’re certainly not the cheapest coins on the market, but none of the mintages break 10,000, so collectability will certainly be high. The design isn’t groundbreaking, being a mix of realistic and stylistic, neither one nor the other, but it’s attractive. The subject matter and first-ever status will make this a seller we believe. Packaging, in typical Royal Mint style, is elegant and understated. The only caveat seems to be the 1/10thoz gold being pricey, yet only BU quality, not a proof.
There are now one-ounce bullion versions available of the gold (30,000) and silver (300,000) and both seem to be very popular. The artist will be doing future designs going forward.
THE ROYAL MINT LAUNCHES FIRST-EVER UK CHINESE LUNAR COINS
The Royal Mint announced today that is has created the first-ever United Kingdom legal tender Lunar coins, lending a uniquely British angle to an ancient Chinese tradition.
The ShēngxiàoCollection, named to honour the Chinese zodiac is the perfect way to wish good luck and fortune to its recipients, and the first coin available in the new series will celebrate the forthcoming Lunar Year of the Horse.
British Chinese artist Wuon-Gean Ho has been commissioned to create a dynamic and handsome design for the new coin. An artist of Chinese descent who was born in the UK, she works in many disciplines including printmaking, animation, performance and artist’s books. This is the first design Wuon-Gean Ho has produced for The Royal Mint.
The striking new coin combines elements from both British and Chinese heritage. In the foreground of the design stands a powerful leaping horse, bringing to life the active characteristics of those born in the Year of the Horse – gregarious, charming, lively and strong. Beneath the horse’s feet lies the famous Uffington Horse, a pre-historic white horse carved into the chalk hills of Oxfordshire.
The new design will feature on a number of different coins, made from either 999.9 fine gold or in 999 fine silver. The range includes a Tenth-ounce Gold Brilliant Uncirculated Coin, a One Ounce Gold Proof Coin and a One Ounce Gold Bullion coin. In silver, there is the One Ounce Silver Proof Coin, a Five Ounce Silver Proof Coin and a One Ounce Silver Bullion Coin.
All the Brilliant Uncirculated and Proof coins are limited editions with each issue including the lucky number eight. In total, 8,888 coins have been created. Prices range from £57.50 for the Silver One Ounce Bullion Coin through to £1,950 for the One Ounce Gold Proof Coin.
Shane Bissett, Director of Commemorative Coin at The Royal Mint said: “The Royal Mint has celebrated moments of national and cultural significance for over 1,000 years. Given our own lengthy heritage, we felt we were uniquely placed to apply our craftsmanship and artistic skills to another centuries-old tradition, that of giving zodiac coins at the Lunar New Year.
“Our new Lunar series will allow The Royal Mint to build on a hugely successful Olympic programme in Asia, and we hope that it becomes the perfect way to wish luck and prosperity to a loved one, to continue the tradition of exchanging gifts at the Lunar New Year or to simply spark an interesting collection.”
Designer of the first coin in the series, Wuon-Gean Ho says, “I wanted the design to draw upon my British and Chinese heritage, as my parents are from Malaysia and Singapore and I was raised in the UK. Although I am involved in the arts now, studying anatomy and closely observing animals for my degree in Veterinary Medicine was good training for this project. The Uffington Horse is part of Britain’s history as well as mine, as I grew up in Oxfordshire close to this famous chalk monument.”
Lunar Year of the Horse 2014 UK Five Ounce Silver Proof Coin
Denomination |
£10 |
Issue Limit |
1,488 |
Alloy |
999 fine silver |
Weight |
156.295g |
Diameter |
65.00mm |
Reverse Designer |
Wuon-Gean Ho |
Obverse Designer |
Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS |
Quality |
Proof |
Lunar Year of the Horse 2014 UK One Ounce Silver Proof Coin
Denomination |
£2 |
Issue Limit |
8,888 |
Alloy |
999 fine silver |
Weight |
31.21g |
Diameter |
38.61mm |
Reverse Designer |
Wuon-Gean Ho |
Obverse Designer |
Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS |
Quality |
Proof |
Lunar Year of the Horse 2014 UK One Ounce Gold Proof Coin
Denomination |
£100 |
Issue Limit |
888 |
Alloy |
999 fine gold |
Weight |
31.21g |
Diameter |
32.69mm |
Reverse Designer |
Wuon-Gean Ho |
Obverse Designer |
Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS |
Quality |
Proof |
Lunar Year of the Horse 2014 UK Tenth-ounce Gold Brilliant Uncirculated Coin
Denomination |
£10 |
Issue Limit |
2,888 |
Alloy |
999 fine gold |
Weight |
3.13g |
Diameter |
16.50mm |
Reverse Designer |
Wuon-Gean Ho |
Obverse Designer |
Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS |
Quality |
Brilliant Uncirculated |
This one is issued for Fiji ($10) and actually quite a striking design. Certainly better than the rocking horse or the blandness of many of the current crop, almost navigating the same path as Macau’s excellent Lunars.
It’s a 1oz, 0.999 silver proof coin, with a diameter of 40mm and a mintage of 3,888. Comes in a nice box with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Around the rim of the coin are small images of a horse running, each being one animated frame further along in the depiction of a horse in full sprint. The coin is placed in it’s box and the lid is closed, whereupon a small battery-powered turntable spins the coin. Through a small viewing window you’ll then get to see the horse run in much the same way as the early Mutoscope machines allowed, like that pictured at top or the old, pervy “What the Butler Saw” machines.
The proof-finish coin weighs in at 2oz (62.2g) of 0.999 silver and is a healthy 60mm in diameter. Mintage is limited to 2,014 pieces. The obverse carries an effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, together with inscriptions for the year and country of issue, and the coin denomination.
Seems to only be available at Downies at the moment, but we’ve yet to confirm if this is an exclusive. It’s $349 AUD.
Another of the national mints has released its Lunar range of gold and silver coins; this time the Singapore Mint. It’s a straightforward affair, available in gold, silver and coloured-silver, and in a range of sizes from fractionals up to a kilo. All are packaged in a good-looking red, octagonal box. Also released are some sets, a couple of which incorporate a floral ingot showing a pair of horses appearing from a field of peonies. It has a floral shape similar to the Canadian Lotus Lunars.
All are available for pre-order now, with the earliest orders shipping on in early January.
SILVER
All the silver is 0.999 fine, proof finish and available in the following sizes;
1. 20g, diameter 38.70mm, mintage 10,000
2. 155.52g (5oz), diameter 65.00mm, mintage 250 pieces and subject to balloting.
3. 1000g (1kg), diameter 100.00mm, mintage 1,000 pieces
4. Coloured, 62.21g (2oz), diameter 45.00mm, mintage 20,000 pieces, Piedfort
GOLD
All the gold is 0.9999 fine, proof finish and available in the following sizes;
1. 7.78g (1/4oz), diameter 21.96mm, mintage 2,000
2. 31.10g (1oz), diameter 33.00mm, mintage 2,000 pieces.
3. 155.2g (5oz), diameter 60.00mm, mintage 200 pieces
THE SETS
All the gold is 0.9999 fine, proof finish and available in the following sizes;
LEFT Contains a 1oz gold coins, a 2oz coloured-silver coin, a CuNi proof-like coin and a floral-shaped ingot. Mintage is 500 sets.
CENTRE Contains a 2oz coloured-silver coin, a CuNi proof-like coin and a floral-shaped ingot. The biggest mintage at 3,000 sets.
RIGHT Contains a 5oz gold and a 5oz silver coin. Only 88 sets are available.
TOKELAU 2014 CAROUSEL HORSES
First up is the first of a pair from South Perth producers, Treasures of Oz. This one is called the Carousel Horses Coin and is the best we’ve seen of the brightly coloured carnival style lunar horse coins. It follows on from last years Infinity Snake coin and again, comes in a presentation box with a COA. Available in late January.
In the design of ancient Chinese currency, this ring-shaped coin depicts four intricately brush-painted dappled carousel horses. Each horse is bedecked in colorful ceremonial garb, including intricate saddles, stirrups, and halters. Horses were dressed in colorful finery for court and military ceremonies and were seen as a symbol of great prosperity. Ceremonial horses like these were the subject of numerous paintings, carvings, and sculptures.
Each coin will feature an obverse image incorporating the IRB effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the words ‘Elizabeth II’, ‘Tokelau’, the date, 2014, the flag of Tokelau and the monetary denomination, Ten Dollars.
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage, pcs |
10 DOLLARS (NZ) | 0.999 silver | 62.2 | 70.00 | PROOF COLOURED | Y – Y | 2,500 |
2014 COOK ISLANDS FAN-SHAPED
Last, but by no means least, comes the second release from Treasures of Oz, a fan-shaped coin with some selective gilding. Again, a nice coin that’s quite Chinese in style in many respects. Available from late January.
This beautiful fan-shaped coin shows a gilded horse galloping across a meadow of grass. The horse’s powerful muscles remind us that those born in this year possess great inner strength and the ability to work hard to accomplish their goals. The single tall tree in the background represents the horse’s individualistic tendencies and ability to work alone.
This unique silver coin contains 1/2oz fine silver and is finished in proof quality with high quality selective gilding on the reverse design.
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage, pcs |
1 DOLLAR (NZ) | 0.999 silver | 15.55 | 49.00 Outer x 24mm Inner | PROOF GILDED | Y – Y | 2,500 |
NIUE 2014 SEVEN GILDED HORSESHOES
This one from Niue, a country most usually found collaborating with the New Zealand Mint or the Mint of Poland, the latter of which are listing it in their own e-shop so may well be minting it. It’s another selectively gilded silver coin, but this one is in sterling silver (0.925) and limited to just 1,500 pieces. Available this month and comes in what appears to be a nice presentation box.
Reverse:
In the central part of the coin – an image of two horses. Next to the image – an inscription: YEAR OF THE HORSE in Chinese. Above – seven horseshoes embellished with selective gilding. Below – a semi-circular inscription: YEAR OF THE HORSE 2014 (the name of the coin in English).
Obverse:
In the central part of the coin – an image of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Along the rim – a semi-circular inscription: ELIZABETH II, NIUE ISLAND (the issuer), 1 DOLLAR (the face value), 2014 (the year of issue). Below, on the left – the mint mark (m/w).
SPECIFICATION
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Box – COA | Mintage, pcs |
1 DOLLAR (NZ) | 0.925 silver | 28.28 | 38.61 | PROOF GILDED | Y – Y | 1,500 |
BELARUS SWAROVSKI
The upcoming 2014 year, that is the Year of the Horse, has been immortalized by the Mint of Poland and the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus on this silver, spellbinding collector coin. Comes in a box with a COA.
The coin with the multitude symbols of luck, wealth and happiness, will be the perfect gift for those born in the year of the horse as well as a charming talisman. The horse is associated with a symbolism of Heaven and magical powers. It is said to be a lucky omen, which brings happiness and walfare. The horseshoe is said to be a symbol of luck. From time immemorial the horseshoe has been used as a talisman to attract happiness, wealth and all good fortune. Gold colour symbolizes wealth and felicity. The coin combines modernity, innovation and the highest craftsmanship, which make it an exquisite collector’s item.
Obverse: In the central part of the coin – a stylized image of an artistic clock mechanism decorated with a SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS in the middle. Around it – inscriptions of the forthcoming Years of the Horse. At the top – an image of the State Emblem of the Republic of Belarus. On the outer ring inscriptions in Belarusian: РЭСПУБЛIКА БЕЛАРУСЬ (Republic of Belarus), the year of issue: 2013, the face value: 20 РУБЛЁЎ (20 roubles) and Ag 925 (alloy).
Reverse: In the central part of the coin – an artistic picture of horses. In the middle – a Chinese hieroglyph meaning the Year of the Horse. Around horses – artistic ornaments. Below it – an inscription: ГОД КАНЯ (the name of the coin in Belarusian).
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Edge | Mintage, pcs |
20 Roubles | 0.925 silver | 33.63 | 38.61 | proof | corrugated | 8000 |
UKRAINE
Obverse: above the small State Emblem of Ukraine, under which – the inscription NATIONAL BANK / UKRAINE, surrounded by stylized floral ornament – 5/HRYVEN face, beneath – year of issue 2014, the designation of metal, its fineness – Ag 925, weight clean – 15.55 Mint logo of the National Bank of Ukraine.
Reverse: surrounded by stylized floral ornament depicted in cheap popular style horse eye which is decorated with Cubic zirconia brown. Above this composition and underneath depiction of contour figures of all 12 characters of oriental calendar. (Element decoration – Cubic zirconia diameter of 1.0 mm.)
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Edge | Mintage, pcs |
5 Hryven | 0.925 silver | 15.55 | 33 | proof | corrugated | 25000 |
KAZAKHSTAN
The coin has dodecahedron shape and is also available in gold.
Obverse: in the center mythological symbols of constellations of celestial map, «Ag 925 31,1 g.» means metal, standard of coinage and weight, wide mat edging along the edge with indication of face value «500 ТЕҢГЕ» and inscription in Kazakh «ҚАЗАҚСТАН РЕСПУБЛИКАСЫ» and in English «REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN», conventionalized image of the sun.
Reverse: in the center image of the horse as the symbol of year 2014 of Oriental calendar, trade mark of Kazakhstan Mint, wide mat edging along the edge with indication of the year of coinage «2014» and inscription in Kazakh «ШЫҒЫС КҮНТІЗБЕСІ», in Russian «ВОСТОЧНЫЙ КАЛЕНДАРЬ», and in English «ORIENTAL CALENDAR», small image of other eleven symbols of Oriental calendar years.
Denomination | Metal | Weight, g | Diameter, mm | Quality | Edge | Mintage, pcs |
500 Tenge | 0.925 silver | 31.1 | 38.61 | proof | smooth | 5000 |
500 Tenge | 0.999 gold | 7.87 | 21.87 | proof | smooth | 3000 |
TRANS-DNEISTER
Denomination: 100 rubles
Quality: proof-like
Alloy: 925 silver
Diameter: 32 mm.
Edge – smooth.
Weight: 13.87 G.
Mintage: 200 pcs.
The obverse: there is an image of the State Emblem Pridnestrovskaia Moldavskaia Respublika in the center, circled by an inscription “ПРИДНЕСТРОВСКИЙ РЕСПУБЛИКАНСКИЙ БАНК” (Pridnestrovskiy Respublikanskiy Bank) in Cyrillic above the image along the edging and an inscription “100 РУБЛЕЙ” (100 rubles ) in Cyrillic. An inscription «2013» Indicating the Year is below the image of the State Emblem. At the left – a logo of the manufacturer, the state fire assay, on the right – metal designation, alloy test.
The reverse: in the center – the image of a horse, at the left – an inscription “ГОД ЛОШАДИ” (YEAR OF THE HORSE), the hieroglyph Designating a symbol of 2014, below – an inscription “2014”.