The Lunar Series II Silver coins from the Perth Mint are a popular choice for collectors and investors looking for silver bullion with a themed design. Introduced in 2008, the series celebrates the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar, with a different design released each year. This rotating theme has helped the series gain strong recognition among collectors across the globe. Currently, the 2008 5 oz Australian Silver Lunar Mouse Coin is available through BGASC.

Highlights:

• Arrives in a plastic capsule!
• 1st issue of the Lunar Series II program at Perth Mint!
• Celebrates the Year of the Mouse!
• Final mintage of 3,005 coins!
• Contains 5 troy oz of .999 pure silver.
• Bears a face value of $8 (AUD) backed by the federal government of Australia.
• The obverse features Queen Elizabeth II.
• On the reverse, two mice are shown on a bed of straw near pumpkins.

Each 2008 5 oz Australian Silver Lunar Mouse Coin arrives in a protective plastic capsule to help preserve the coins finish. This coin was released during the first year of the Perth Mints Lunar Series II program, which continued through 2019. In its launch year, the series included seven silver coin weights ranging from 10 kilograms down to 1/2 troy oz. The 5 oz version reached a final mintage of just 3,005 coins.

Obverse

The obverse of the 2008 Australian Silver Lunar Mouse Coin includes the image of Queen Elizabeth II. The portrait was designed by Ian Rank-Broadley in 1998 and shows the Queen in right-profile wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. This effigy remained in use on many Commonwealth coins for an extended period of time.

Reverse

On the reverse of the 2008 5 oz Silver Lunar Mouse Coin, the design shows two mice resting together on a pile of straw. Behind them, pumpkins appear in the background of the scene. The detailed engraving demonstrates the Perth Mints careful design work and attention to small visual elements.

History

The Year of the Mouse, often called the Year of the Rat, marked the start of a fresh twelve-year cycle in the Chinese lunar zodiac in 2008. Within Chinese tradition, the Rat is considered a clever and adaptable animal. People born during this zodiac year are often associated with intelligence, awareness, and the ability to recognize opportunity.

Ordering

If you have any questions when purchasing silver, BGASC customer service is available to assist. You can reach our team at 888-992-4272, through our web chat feature online, or by email.