Lunar Monkey 2oz Silver Coin 2016 | margin scheme
Perth Mint
The Perth Mint is one of the world’s most renowned precious metal mints. Founded in 1899 in Perth, Australia, as a branch of the British Royal Mint, it is now owned by the Government of Western Australia. The mint specializes in the production of bullion bars, collector coins, and investment coins made from gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.
The Perth Mint is especially well known for its “Australian Kangaroo,” “Koala,” and “Lunar” coin series.
GPSR: The Perth Mint
310 Hay Street
Western Australia 6004 East Perth
Australia
+61 (8) 9421 7222
info@perthmint.com
🇦🇺 Lunar II Monkey 2016 – 2 oz Silver Coin – Zodiac Sign in a Balanced Composition
The Lunar II Monkey 2016 – 2 oz silver coin is part of the second Lunar Series by the Perth Mint, which presents the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac in annually changing designs. The monkey, as the ninth sign of the cycle, traditionally represents intelligence, agility, and curiosity. In this edition, the motif is rendered in a calm and clearly structured composition, where the larger surface area enhances balance and allows the design to unfold with clarity and harmony. The imagery follows a naturalistic approach, depicting the animal within its environment to create a cohesive and tranquil overall impression.
The obverse features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. The monarch’s profile is executed in a classical style, with precisely modeled facial features that convey a calm and balanced presence. Surrounding inscriptions include ELIZABETH II, the issuing country AUSTRALIA, the face value of 2 DOLLARS, and the year of issue 2016. The lettering is evenly arranged along the rim, following the circular form of the coin and contributing to a clear and structured overall composition, while leaving the portrait ample space within the field.
The reverse displays the monkey as the central motif, designed by Ing Ing Jong. The scene depicts an adult monkey seated on a branch, accompanied by a young monkey positioned nearby. This pairing creates a calm and balanced narrative, reflecting a natural and harmonious interaction. The body forms are clearly modeled, and the fine texture of the fur is rendered through precise and consistent line work. Particular attention is given to the facial features, which are carefully detailed and lend the scene a sense of expression and vitality, while maintaining an overall composed character.
In the background, subtle plant elements are suggested, providing a natural setting without distracting from the main motif. These elements are deliberately understated, ensuring the focus remains on the figures. Alongside the design appear the Chinese character for “monkey” and the inscription YEAR OF THE MONKEY, clearly identifying the zodiac theme. The arrangement is balanced and well-structured.
The engraving is fine and consistently executed, allowing light to move smoothly across the silver surface and highlight the texture of the fur and the contours of the figures. The carefully defined transitions between elements create a subtle sense of depth, while the interplay of smooth and textured areas enhances the coin’s balanced visual effect. The expanded surface area ensures that all details remain clear and well-defined without overcrowding the composition.
The coin is struck from 2 oz of fine silver with a purity of 999, giving it a bright and even luster that supports the clarity of the engraving. The surface reflects light in a soft and uniform manner, allowing the structure of the design to stand out clearly.
The 2 oz denomination provides an extended surface, enabling a more detailed rendering of the fur, body forms, and surrounding elements. Despite the increased size, the composition remains calm and balanced. The cleanly finished rim forms a defined boundary and completes the design.
The monkey is a symbol of intelligence, adaptability, and curiosity within the Chinese zodiac. Its depiction in this series reflects both its lively nature and composed character, expressed through a clear and structured visual language.
The Lunar II Monkey 2016 – 2 oz silver coin combines this traditional symbolism with modern minting craftsmanship—struck in silver and executed with precision, structure, and timeless clarity.
| Metal | Silver |
| Form | Silver Coin |
| Country of Origin | Australia |
| Manufacturer | Perth Mint |
| Series | Lunar II |
| Purity | 999/1000 |
| Fineweight | 62.20 gram |
| Gross Weight | 62.206 gram |
| Denomination (oz) | 2 oz |
| Year of issue | 2016 |
| Grade | Brilliant |
| Condition | Circulated |
| Face value | 2 AUD |
| Thickness | 3.42 mm |
| Diameter | 55.10 mm |
| Packaging | Single in capsule |
| Packaging Unit | 5 per roll |
| Large Packaging 2 | 50 per Box |