The Perth Mint Gold Chinese Myths and Legends coins are a series of Perth Mint coins that commemorate the captivating stories of Chinese mythology. These coins incorporate the cultural significance of Eastern legends in intricate designs with fine gold. Chinese Myths and Legends were first introduced in 2018 to honor the legends and mythical creatures embedded in Chinese culture. The series includes a dragon and koi, a phoenix, and the Four Guardians, and each of these carries a profound meaning in Chinese traditions, like strength, perseverance, and harmony.
Coin Designs
Each coin in the series features meticulously crafted designs that embody the spirit of the mythical creatures they depict. These designs combine artistic brilliance with symbolic depth, showcasing elements deeply rooted in Chinese cultural and spiritual traditions.
Phoenix Issue
The Phoenix in Chinese mythology represents virtues like benevolence, honesty, and knowledge. It is depicted as a majestic bird that only appears in times of peace and prosperity. The silver 2022 and gold 2023 Phoenix issues of the Chinese Myths and Legends series embody this in a detailed design that features the phoenix with a regal posture and intricate feathers. Behind the phoenix, the background contains stylized clouds as traditional symbols of good fortune and abundance. The Phoenix coins feature Queen Elizabeth on the obverse along with the date, face value, fineness, and weight.
Dragon and Koi Issue
Dragons are seen as divine creatures and auspicious omens of strength, wealth, and power in Chinese mythology. Through Chinese and other East Asian cultures, koi fish are considered symbols of happiness, harmony, and marriage/fertility. The Dragon and Koi Chinese Myths and Legends coin features a koi and a dragon focusing on a pearl, the symbol of wisdom. The design also includes a moon bridge, representing purity and tying together elements of power and enlightenment. The Dragon and Koi issue depicts the Jody Clark effigy of Queen Elizabeth II on its obverse, as well as the date, face value, fineness, and weight.
Four Guardians
The Four Guardians issue of Chinese Myths and Legends from The Perth Mint features the four creatures that protect the cardinal directions in Chinese mythology. They include the azure dragon, vermilion bird, white tiger, and black tortoise with a snake. Each of the mythical creatures is associated with a cardinal direction, element, and season, maintaining a cosmic equilibrium. Behind the mythical creatures is a background of mountain peaks and clouds, signifying their balancing and protective roles. The Four Guardians issue of the Chinese Myths and Legends series is the first of the series to feature King Charles II on the obverse.
These designs highlight the duality and balance integral to Chinese philosophy, presenting themes of transformation, harmony, and triumph over adversity.
Composition
The Perth Mint Gold Chinese Myths and Legends coins contain 1 troy ounce of .9999 fine gold, and many issues are also available in a 1 ounce silver option. Each coin is legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, adding credibility and recognition in global markets.
Authentication and Security
The Perth Mint employs state-of-the-art security features to guarantee the authenticity of its coins. These include:
- Micro-laser engraved lettering: Invisible to the naked eye, this feature ensures that buyers can confirm the coin’s authenticity under magnification.
- Protective Packaging: Coins are encapsulated in durable acrylic capsules to protect and preserve their condition, reflecting The Perth Mint’s commitment to quality and attention to detail.
- These measures provide collectors and investors with peace of mind, ensuring that they receive a genuine Perth Mint product.
The Perth Mint Gold coins, like the Chinese Myths and Legends series, illustrate the Mint’s dedication to craftsmanship, cultural celebration, and investment value. Each coin tells a story from Chinese mythology that blends artistry with tradition. The series’ beautiful designs, gold purity, and secure packaging make these coins an investment to delight in. These coins celebrate ancient tales while offering a tangible and timeless investment.
