2017 $1 Fine Silver Proof Coin - Year of the Rooster

To celebrate the Year of the Rooster in 2017, the Royal Australian Mint has released the latest coins from the Lunar Series. These coins combine the talents of award-winning coin designer Vladimir Gottwald with beautiful illustrations by Stevan Stojanovic. Reflecting many of the original Lunar Series design elements these coins are a stunning representation of this zodiac sign.

HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE

The Chinese Zodiac, Sheng Xiao, has its basis in a twelve-year cycle. Each year is represented by one of twelve animals with unique personality traits, with these characteristics being passed on to people born in that year. In 2017, the Lunar Year of the Rooster will see the births of many people who are said to be focused on their duties and attentive to fine details while being sensitive to their friends and families.

The Chinese Lunar Calendar also rotates through the elements of earth, fire, water, metal and wood as part of a larger 60 year cycle. The fire roosters born this year will also be deep thinkers who enjoy a life of luxury.

At many Chinese celebrations, holidays and special events, monetary gifts are given to wish hope and prosperity to younger people. These offerings are traditionally given in red envelopes, a colour which both symbolises good luck and wards off evil forces.

FEATURES AND DESIGN

• The reverse features an artistic representation of a rooster rested on a branch surrounded by the original Lunar Series design elements

• Obverse features Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II effigy sculpted by Ian Rank-Broadley

• Proof coins presented in beautiful presentation cases with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity

• Australian legal tender coins