A Golden Celebration of the Horse: The 2026 Australian Lunar Series III Coin
The Perth Mint continues its tradition of lunar coinage with the release of the 2026 Year of the Horse 1oz Silver Gilded Coin, a spectacular addition to the ongoing Australian Lunar Series III. This series is recognised globally not only for its meticulous craftsmanship but also for its respectful homage to the 12 animals of the Chinese Lunar Calendar. For discerning Australian collectors, this particular release represents a pinnacle of numismatic art, combining the intrinsic value of precious metal with an exquisite, culturally rich design.
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Struck from one ounce of 99.99% pure silver, the coin immediately impresses with its technical quality. What elevates this edition is the selective application of 24-carat gold gilding, lending a luxurious and distinctive finish. This delicate gilding technique is reserved for the reverse design, which beautifully captures the energy and grace of the zodiac animal. The design, created by the talented Ing Ing Jong, portrays a powerful mare and her foal galloping harmoniously through mountain grasslands. The gilded figures of the mare and foal stand out dramatically against the brilliant, proof-quality silver background, creating a superb contrast that highlights the sculptural detail of the animals. Accompanying the central image are the Chinese character for ‘Horse,’ the inscription ‘HORSE 2026,’ and The Perth Mint’s historic ‘P’ mintmark.
The Horse occupies a significant place in the Chinese zodiac, symbolising vitality, courage, speed, and independence. Individuals born under this sign are often considered highly energetic, intelligent, and freedom-loving. This coin design elegantly embodies these traits, presenting a moment of dynamic motion and robust family connection in the natural world.
As a legal tender coin, the obverse features the elegant effigy of His Majesty King Charles III, designed by Dan Thorne, along with the coin’s weight, purity, monetary denomination, and year-date. The combination of its sovereign status and its artistic merit secures its position as a highly desirable collectable.
Furthermore, the limited availability enhances its appeal. The Perth Mint has set a maximum mintage of 25,000, with an Issue Limit of 23,500 for this specific gilded release. This constraint ensures its relative scarcity within the global market, a factor consistently appreciated by collectors who prioritise exclusivity. The Year of the Horse 1oz Silver Gilded Coin is a superb acquisition, perfect for celebrating a birth year, honouring a personal connection to the zodiac sign, or simply adding a beautifully rendered piece of Australian minting excellence to a quality collection. Its superb presentation and significant thematic depth make it a prudent and rewarding investment for enthusiasts.
