2017-09-25 Mon

The Royal Mint released a lunar coin collection celebrating the 2018 Year of the Dog which will begin on 16th February 2018, as per 1,100-year-old lunar calendar. Tokens and gifts of money are exchanged for the recipient’s health, wealth and prosperity during the Lunar New Year. Each lunar year is related to 12 animals. The characteristics of these animals are related to characteristics of people born during that year.

The designer says that the design is based on a mixed breed between a West Highland White Terrier and a Jack Russell to bring out the energy of a smaller dog. These dogs are known for their quick intelligence, loyalty and playful nature. The background features a biometric nose print of a greyhound. Nose prints are unique for every dog. It has a pixelated nature which also represents digitized information from the 21st century.

The coins come in red packaging along with a booklet that talks about the inspiration behind the design. Mintage limits are related to the number ‘8’ which is lucky according to Chinese culture.

Those who are born in the Year of Dog are believed to be true friends. They have qualities like honesty, kindness, loyalty and intuitiveness.