How to Identify the Australian Lunar Series Gold

What It Is

The Lunar Series gold coins are the Perth Mint's gold counterpart to its silver Lunar program, following the same Chinese zodiac theme. Series I ran from 1996 to 2007, Series II from 2008 to 2019, and Series III began in 2020. Each twelve-year cycle works through the full zodiac calendar - rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig - before starting over with a fresh set of artwork.

Obverse Design

The obverse shows a portrait of the reigning monarch - Queen Elizabeth II on earlier coins, King Charles III on the most recent - often paired with a small zodiac symbol or character for that year's animal.

Reverse Design

The reverse depicts that year's zodiac animal, along with "AUSTRALIAN LUNAR," the weight and fineness, and the date.

Size, Weight, and Metal

Lunar Series gold coins are struck in .9999 fine gold, in sizes ranging from small fractional weights such as 1/20 oz up to 1 oz, with larger kilo coins also produced.

Mint Marks and Where to Find Them

A small "P" mintmark appears within the coin's design, identifying the Perth Mint.

Telling It Apart From Similar Coins

As with the silver version, the general border and frame treatment differs somewhat between Series I, II, and III, which helps place a coin alongside the zodiac animal and date. The Gold Lunar coin is distinguished from the Silver Lunar coin mainly by its color and weight for a given size designation.

Judging Condition at a Glance

Gold does not tone, so grading relies on strike sharpness and surface marks. Examine the fine detail in the zodiac animal's fur or feathers for wear, bag marks, or a soft, indistinct strike. A coin still sealed in its original mint capsule usually retains crisp, undisturbed luster, while one that has been handled loose often shows small rim dings and light scuffing across the open background field.

Authenticity Red Flags

Check that the weight and diameter match the stated fraction of an ounce for .9999 fine gold, confirm the coin is not magnetic, and verify the "P" mintmark is present and correctly placed. A mismatch between the featured animal and the year on the coin is also a sign to investigate further. Comparing the coin's edge and rim finish against a known-genuine example of the same year and size can also help catch subtle differences in thickness or relief depth that are common in cast counterfeits.