2024 Year of the Dragon 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin
2024 Year of the Dragon 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin
The fifth year of The Perth Mint’s highly anticipated Australian Lunar Series III coin program includes an array of superb silver coins celebrating the next animal in the zodiac, the dragon. Released as a magnificent three-coin set, and as individual 1oz and 1/2oz silver proof coins, the coins feature original artistry portraying the powerful dragon. The dragon commands the highest respect in Chinese culture.
For thousands of years, it was associated with the emperor and his descendants, symbolising wisdom, enlightenment, and benevolence. The dragon was also said to command water and rain, and by ensuring abundant harvests became a powerful symbol of wealth and good fortune. According to Chinese tradition, the emperor ordered a great race between all the animals on Earth to determine who should occupy 12 positions on the lunar calendar.
To complete the course, each animal had to cross a fastflowing river. While leading the race, the noble dragon stopped to make rain for the people, ultimately reaching the opposite bank in fifth place.
Those born under the sign of the Chinese Lunar Dragon in 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976 and every 12th preceding year, are said to be ambitious, successful, and charismatic. Struck from 99.99% pure silver in proof quality, no more than 5,000 1oz coins, 4,000 1/2oz coins, and 1,000 three-coin sets will be released in this packaging.
The coins are issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965.
DESIGN
The coin’s reverse portrays a dragon with water cascading from its mouth, stylised waves, and a flaming pearl, a symbol of wisdom. Included in the design is the Chinese character for ‘dragon’, the inscription ‘DRAGON 2024’ and a ‘P125’ mintmark signifying The Perth Mint’s 125th anniversary.
The coin bears the Jody Clark Memorial Obverse of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II supplemented with the dates of her reign ‘1952-2022’, as well as the weight and fineness, and the monetary denomination.
| Country of Issue | Australia |
|---|---|
| Year of Issue | 2024 |
| Denomination | 50c |
| Weight (g) | 15.553 |
| Mintage | 5,000 |
| Metal | Silver |
| Metal Purity (%) | 99.99 |
| Quality | Proof |
| Diameter (mm) | 32.60 |
| Issued By | Perth Mint |
***Limit 1 per person/household. Any found to be ordering more than the limit could see their orders cancelled***
***Shipping from Mid-November***