Lunar II Dragon 1kg Silver Coin 2012 | 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 Dragon 2012 – 1 kg Silver Coin – Zodiac Sign in a Powerful Representation
The Lunar II Dragon 2012 – 1 kg 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 dragon holds a special position within this cycle, symbolizing strength, energy, and good fortune. In this large-format edition, the motif is rendered in a spacious and clearly structured composition, allowing the design to unfold with clarity and visual balance. The expansive surface provides room for a calm yet expressive presentation, guided by a clean and ordered design language.
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 finely modeled facial features that convey a calm and dignified presence. Surrounding inscriptions include ELIZABETH II, the issuing country AUSTRALIA, the face value of 30 DOLLARS, and the year of issue 2012. The lettering is evenly arranged along the rim, following the circular form of the coin and contributing to a clear and structured overall appearance, while leaving the portrait ample space within the field.
The reverse displays the dragon as the central motif, designed by Ing Ing Jong. The mythical creature is depicted in a flowing, dynamic posture, its body winding across the surface in a graceful and continuous line. The fine detailing of the scales runs evenly along the body, creating a distinct and textured structure. The dragon’s head is expressively rendered, with open jaws and clearly defined contours, reinforcing its symbolic power.
The dragon is surrounded by stylized cloud formations, which frame the scene while remaining subtle and restrained, ensuring the main motif remains dominant. Alongside the design appear the Chinese character for “dragon” and the inscription YEAR OF THE DRAGON, clearly identifying the zodiac theme. The arrangement is balanced and well-structured, maintaining visual harmony.
The engraving is fine and consistent, allowing light to move smoothly across the silver surface and emphasize the texture of the scales and the contours of the body. The carefully executed transitions between elements create a calm sense of depth, enhanced by the interplay of smooth and textured areas. The large surface ensures that all details remain clearly visible without overcrowding the composition.
The coin is struck from 1 kilogram of fine silver with a purity of 999, giving it a bright and even luster that enhances the clarity of the engraving. The surface reflects light in a soft and uniform manner, highlighting the structure of the design and supporting its calm visual effect.
The 1 kg denomination provides a particularly expansive surface, allowing for a high level of detail in the rendering of the scales, body, and surrounding elements. Despite its size, the composition remains balanced and composed. The cleanly finished rim forms a defined boundary and completes the design.
The dragon is one of the most significant symbols in the Chinese zodiac, representing strength, vitality, and prosperity, often associated with movement and dynamic energy. In this interpretation, the motif is presented in a clear and structured form, emphasizing its defining characteristics.
The Lunar II Dragon 2012 – 1 kg silver coin combines this traditional symbolism with modern minting craftsmanship—struck in silver and executed with precision, structure, and timeless presence.
| Metal | Silver |
| Form | Silver Coin |
| Country of Origin | Australia |
| Manufacturer | Perth Mint |
| Series | Lunar II |
| Purity | 999/1000 |
| Fineweight | 1000 gram |
| Gross Weight | 1000.00 gram |
| Year of issue | 2012 |
| Grade | Brilliant |
| Condition | Circulated |
| Face value | 30 AUD |
| Thickness | 14.60 mm |
| Diameter | 100.60 mm |
| Packaging | in Capsule |
| Large Packaging 2 | 10 per Box |