Australian Lunar Series II is the second lunar silver coin series from the The Perth Mint in Australia and was minted between 2008 and 2019. The series consists of 12 official coins, one for each animal in the twelve-year cycle of the Chinese lunar calendar, presented here as a complete collection containing 1 troy ounce of silver per coin. Lunar Series II is the most recognized and widely collected lunar series from Perth Mint and has gained global popularity among both investors and numismatic collectors. Lunar – Background and Symbolism The Chinese lunar calendar follows a twelve-year cycle in which each year is represented by an animal, each associated with traditional traits and symbolic meanings: Rat — intelligence and adaptability Ox — strength and reliability Tiger — courage and power Rabbit — harmony and luck Dragon — authority and success Snake — wisdom and intuition Horse — energy and freedom Goat — creativity and balance Monkey — intelligence and curiosity Rooster — honesty and determination Dog — loyalty and justice Pig — prosperity and generosity Lunar coins are often given as gifts for birth years, Lunar New Year celebrations, or major life events, giving them strong cultural and symbolic value. Lunar Series II – What Makes It Special With Lunar Series II, Perth Mint refined the concept introduced in the first series and presented: • More detailed and dynamic animal designs • Enhanced relief and artistic precision • Stronger international demand, particularly across Asia • Greater collector focus with multiple sizes and special editions The series quickly became a benchmark for modern lunar silver coins and set the standard for the later Lunar Series III. Design and Finish • Each year features a completely new and unique animal design • The artwork is more expressive and detailed than in Lunar Series I • The obverse features Elizabeth II, confirming the coins’ status as official legal tender • Classic Brilliant Uncirculated quality for bullion releases Legal Status – Official Legal Tender Australian Lunar Series II coins are official legal tender in Australia. This means the coins: • Are issued by The Perth Mint on behalf of the Australian government • Have an official face value of 1 Australian Dollar (1 AUD) • Are legally valid as payment, although they are primarily traded as silver bullion and collectible coins Specifications Series: Australian Lunar Series II Issuer: The Perth Mint Period: 2008–2019 Number of Coins: 12 Weight per Coin: 1 troy ounce (31.1 g) Silver Purity: .999 fine silver Face Value: 1 AUD Diameter: approx. 45.6 mm Quality: Brilliant Uncirculated