Story

Lunar tradition

According to Chinese folklore, the emperor ordered a Great Race between all the animals on Earth to determine who should occupy 12 positions in the lunar calendar. Using its guile, the snake finished in sixth place. As a result, those born under the sign of the Chinese Lunar Snake in 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989 and every 12th preceding year are said to inherit the snake’s wisdom, intelligence, independence, and charm.

Year of the Snake design

The coin’s reverse portrays a coiled snake on the ground beneath hanging leaves. Included in the design is the Chinese character for ‘snake’, the inscription ‘SNAKE 2025’, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

08 2025 Year of the Snake 1 2oz  Silver Proof Coin InCase HighRes

H.M. King Charles III effigy

The coin’s obverse bears the Dan Thorne effigy of His Majesty King Charles III, as well as the weight, fineness, and the monetary denomination.

Presentation packaging

Accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity, the coin is presented in a classic display case with a geometric design on its transparent lid. The case comes in an illustrated shipper featuring a snake. When arrayed with other shippers from the series, the resulting diorama depicts all 12 animals that successfully completed The Great Race.

About the series

Australian Lunar Series III

Each Australian lunar series from The Perth Mint is based on the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. Coin collectors are besotted with each annual release, hence the longevity of the 12-year series.  

Established in 1996, The Perth Mint was the first to release an Australian lunar coin program. Due to its success, it is now in its third series. 

Made with the fine gold, silver and platinum in combination with intricate craftsmanship, these Australian lunar collector coins explore the ancient tradition and mythical folklore of the Chinese Great Race. 

Variations

All sizes available

Specifications

Specifications

Year 2025
Metal Silver
Silver Content (Troy oz) 0.500
Monetary Denomination (AUD) 0.50
Fineness (% purity) 99.99
Minimum Gross Weight (g) 15.553
Maximum Diameter (mm) 32.60
Maximum Thickness (mm) 2.90
Maximum Mintage 5,000
Finish Proof
Legal Tender Australia
Effigy Dan Thorne design of H.M. King Charles III
Designer Sean Rogers

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