Story

Lunar story

According to Chinese tradition, the emperor ordered a great race between all the animals on Earth to determine who should occupy 12 positions in the lunar calendar. In pursuit of the fifth placed dragon, the free-spirited horse galloped towards the finish line with determination. In a sudden twist, the horse was cheated by the snake who emerged from hiding under its hoof causing it to lurch back. Despite the setback, the resilient horse claimed seventh place.   

Seventh in line after the snake, the horse is said to bestow independence, charisma, and a sense of adventure on those born under its influence in 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990 and every 12th preceding year. Being passionate and spirited, they are gifted with natural charm and an ability to inspire others.

01 2026 Year of the Horse Silver Proof Three Coin Set InCase HighRes

Year of the Horse design

The reverse of each coin portrays a majestic mare alongside her young foal, both depicted with elegant manes in a striking galloping stance. The background includes towering mountains and the lush serenity of grasslands. Also included in the design is the Chinese character for ‘Horse’, the inscription ‘HORSE 2026’, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark. 

Presentation packaging

Accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity, the set is housed in a classic display case with a clear lid, and an illustrated shipper featuring a snake. When arrayed with other shippers from the series, the resulting diorama depicts the legend of The Great Race, in which 12 animals successfully compete for a position in the lunar zodiac.

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. 

More like this

Specifications

Specifications

Coin

2oz

1oz

1/2oz

Coin

Year

2oz

2026

1oz

2026

1/2oz

2026

Coin

Metal

2oz

Silver

1oz

Silver

1/2oz

Silver

Coin

Silver Content (Troy oz)

2oz

2.000

1oz

1.000

1/2oz

0.500

Coin

Monetary Denomination (AUD)

2oz

2.00

1oz

1.00

1/2oz

0.50

Coin

Fineness (% purity)

2oz

99.99

1oz

99.99

1/2oz

99.99

Coin

Minimum Gross Weight (g)

2oz

62.213

1oz

31.107

1/2oz

15.553

Coin

Maximum Diameter (mm)

2oz

50.80

1oz

40.90

1/2oz

32.60

Coin

Maximum Thickness (mm)

2oz

4.80

1oz

3.50

1/2oz

2.90

Coin

Maximum Mintage

2oz

2,000

1oz

7,500

1/2oz

5,000

Coin

Finish

2oz

Proof

1oz

Proof

1/2oz

Proof

Coin

Legal Tender

2oz

Australia

1oz

Australia

1/2oz

Australia

Coin

Effigy

2oz

Dan Thorne design of H.M. King Charles III

1oz

Dan Thorne design of H.M. King Charles III

1/2oz

Dan Thorne design of H.M. King Charles III

Coin

Designer

2oz

Ing Ing Jong

1oz

Ing Ing Jong

1/2oz

Ing Ing Jong

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