The Perth Mint is delighted to unveil the Australian Lunar 2022 Year of the Tiger proof quality coin series.
Launched back in 1996 and now in its third cycle, the ever-popular program is inspired by the fascinating mythological story behind the 12 animals of the Chinese lunar calendar.
The Great Race
It is a Chinese tradition that thousands of years ago the Emperor divided the measurement of time into 12 years coinciding with monthly cycles of the Moon’s phases. He also decreed that each year in his lunar calendar would be overseen by one of 12 animals – the mouse, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Like the zodiac signs of Western astrology, each one would exert influence over people born during its ascendancy.
According to a popular version of the legend, the order in which the animals would rule was determined by a ‘Great Race’. Towards the end of the challenge, the animals were required to cross a fast-flowing river. The mouse took first place, having hitched a ride on the head of the second-placed ox. With its surprising affinity for water, the tiger beat nine other animals to reach the shore in third place.
The Year of the Tiger
As a result, the tiger rules every third year in the 12-year lunar calendar. The magnificent big cat’s return will be officially welcomed during 2022 Chinese New Year celebrations on 1 February.
For adherents to the lunar zodiac, it is fortuitous to be born during the Year of the Tiger, an animal believed to ward off evil. Held in awe for millennia, the pattern on its forehead is very similar to the Chinese character for ‘king’ – hence its reputation as the ruler of all beasts and king of the mountains.
According to Chinese astrology, the tiger’s cohort is born during 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010 and 2022. Auspicious characteristics bestowed on them by the tiger include determination, courage, charm and confidence. They’re said to get along best with those born under the dragon, horse and pig zodiac signs.
2022 Proof Lunar Coins
Internationally renowned for their quality, purity and design, flawlessly struck Proof Lunar coins are sought by series collectors and those celebrating Chinese New Year. In 2022, they’re perfect keepsakes for anyone born under the lunar tiger.
Pure gold coins depict a fearless tiger standing on a peak with its open jaws displaying razor sharp canine teeth. Pure silver coins portray a tiger cub following its proud and protective parent across a rocky terrain.
With the mintage of each piece extremely limited, the race is on to secure these remarkable coins.
