2016-10-14 Fri

The British Virgin Islands issued 2 new coins dated 2017 celebrating the start of the Lunar New Year on 5th October. This tradition has been followed from 2600 BC in most parts of Asia and is dependent on the cycles of the moon. The New Year will commence on 28th January next year and will be represented by the Rooster in the Eastern zodiac.

The coin’s shape resembles that of a traditional oriental “lock charm” which is used to safeguard possessions and property, protect a person from evil, and bring good luck, fortune, official rank, and long life. They are given to family and loved ones and kept under pillows during the Lunar New Year.

The coins come in two varieties, bronze and .999 silver. The reverse features a cockerel and cherry blossoms for “five blessings” that protect the owner from evil and ensure good luck and long life. The obverse features the common portrait of Queen Elizabeth II used exclusively by Pobjoy Mint.

The mintage limit of the $1 Bronze 22.8 g Uncirculated coin is 5,000 and that of the $10 .999 silver 31.1 g Proof coloured coin is 1,000. The coins can be bought from 1st November. The silver coin features coloured cherry blossoms. The bronze coins come in a traditional “lycee,” or money gift-pack for the Lunar Year. The coins also come in special packaging.