03/09/2020
To mark the second sign of the Chinese lunar zodiac, the Royal Australian Mint (the Mint) has released a Year of the Ox coin collection featuring highly sought after collectable coins.
Royal Australian Mint CEO – Mr. Ross MacDiarmid said “These coins have been intricately designed to capture the relevance of the Lunar New Year and serve as a beautiful tribute in 2021.”
The Mint’s 2021 Lunar Series collection celebrates the 2021 Year of the Ox, which is traditionally the second animal featured in the twelve year Lunar Cycle.
According to legend the Chinese Jade Emperor announced a Great Race to establish the first twelve signs of the Lunar Zodiac. At the end of the race the animals had to cross a fast-flowing river and the first twelve would take their place in the Zodiac. The dependable and powerful Ox easily crossed the river and would have won, except the clever Rat hitched a ride on the Ox’s back and jumped off to claim the prize. The Ox – the original quiet achiever – accepted the result with grace and humility. This is indicative of the inner strength, patience and honesty that are characteristics of those born in the Year of the Ox.
The 2021 Lunar Series – Year of the Ox designs feature the powerful Ox standing amid willow branches, with the lunar calendar presented on the obverse of the coin.
“The Ox is depicted in a busy and active stance, strong willed and persistent. The use of a willow tree is included alongside the Ox as a symbol of humility. This matches well with the honest and patient nature of people born in the Year of the Ox” said Royal Australian Mint Coin Designer – Bronwyn King.
The ‘2021 Lunar Series – Year of the Ox’ collection includes a 2021 $1 Uncirculated Two-Coin Set, a 2021 $1 1/2oz Fine Silver Frosted Uncirculated Ingot, a 2021 $5 Silver Proof Domed Coin and a 2021 $100 Gold Proof Domed Coin.
“Chinese Lunar New Year is celebrated across the globe. Coins and money are considered to be traditional and lucky gifts. These beautifully designed coins will be a tasteful and auspicious gift to celebrate 2021 Lunar New Year” said Royal Australian Mint CEO – Mr. Ross MacDiarmid
These coins are Australian legal tender and can be purchased from the Mint’s website, the Contact Centre (1300 652 020) or the Royal Australian Mint’s Authorised Dealers.
Media Enquiries: Royal Australian Mint: Annika Scott, Annika.Scott@ramint.gov.au 02 6202 3466
