Generous gods

In traditional Chinese culture, Fu, Lu and Shou are figures representing the gods of three auspicious heavenly bodies. Portrayed in art since the Ming Dynasty, they’re said to embody attributes considered essential to personal happiness – prosperity, success, and longevity.

Coloured Fu, Lu and Shou characters

Embodying prosperity, Fu is seen as a treasury official holding a salver of boat-shaped gold ingots known as sycee, used as currency in Imperial China.

Embodying success, Lu is represented as a court mandarin clutching a scroll, symbolising the announcement of a promotion in rank.

Embodying longevity, Shou is depicted as a wise old man with a high forehead who is smiling on happy children, who represent one path to prosperity.

As well as The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark, the design includes an intricate background comprising motifs auspicious in Chinese culture, including bats, clouds, peonies, a deer, and a crane.