We’ve repeatedly commented on the ever earlier launch of lunar coins, often appearing up to a year before the actual change date, but the Year of the Dragon seems to exacerbate that even further. Probably the most popular of the lunar animals, it next comes around in early 2024 – yes, that’s right, 2024 – but we’ve already seen several issues, and expect to see more.

The latest is this pretty coin from German producer, MDM, one with a good presence in the pop-culture genre, but who mainly specialises in the more innovative end of the market, with some impressive issues. Dragon Egg is an oval-shaped coin struck with five-ounces of fine silver. It’s big, at 50.0 x 70.0 mm, yet still exhibits good levels of high relief. It’s nicely done, with the shell forming a variably-sized, non-continuous frame for the emerging dragon. It’s visibly an Asian-style creature, unencumbered by inscribed text distractions.

The obverse is fully themed as well, with a terrific dragon depicted in a style reminiscent of the old Chinese watercolour art. The issue details for this Djibouti release are ring-fenced in a circular area, and are quite unobtrusive. Great to see an obverse good enough to be the main face, and the antique finish suits it perfectly. Available to order shortly, it comes nicely boxed, and has a mintage of 488. A bit early for a Lunar Dragon coin, but hard to complain too much when it’s well done.