2017-06-01 Thu

The Shengxiao or Chinese Zodiac Collection by Royal Mint will be continued with its latest release celebrating the Lunar Year of the Monkey, which started on 8th February 2016. The coins are available in several versions like; Brilliant Uncirculated tenth-ounce gold £10 coin, Proof 1-ounce silver £2 coin, Proof 1-ounce gold £100 coin, Proof 5-ounce silver £10 coin, Proof 5-ounce gold £500 coin, Proof kilogram silver £500 coin, Proof kilogram gold £1,000 coin. Each coin has a different pricing and mintage limit

One of 12 animals represents each Lunar year. People born during that year are associated with certain attributes accordingly. The Monkey symbolises luck, honour and wealth. People born during this lunar year are energetic, witty and friendly. They also apply their knowledge to creativity and problem-solving.

The reverse features Rhesus monkeys who share a common ancestor with humans about 25 million years ago. Apart from being intelligent, friendly and family oriented, they are also good at climbing and swimming. The obverse features the common portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

The coins come in bright red packaging and a booklet that shares information about the inspired design. Mintage limits have the number “8” which is considered to be lucky in Chinese culture.