2012 1kg Lunar Dragon Silver Coin

Product Overview

The 2012 1kg Lunar Year of the Dragon Silver Coin is the fifth release in The Perth Mint’s highly acclaimed Australian Lunar Series II, which celebrates the ancient Chinese lunar calendar. Struck from 1 kilogram (32.15 troy ounces) of 99.9% pure silver, this stunning coin captures the strength, wisdom, and mythical power of the dragon; one of the most revered symbols in Chinese culture.

Launched in 2008 with the Year of the Mouse, Lunar Series II includes twelve coins released annually, each representing an animal in the Chinese zodiac cycle. The 2012 Dragon Coin follows the Mouse, Ox, Tiger, and Rabbit issues.

This impressive 1kg edition is not only a substantial silver investment, but also a highly collectible and culturally significant release. Capture your dragon with Queensland Mint today!

Acquired from a private collection, while encapsulated, the coin may show patina consistent with age. 

Key Features & Benefits

Massive 1kg Format – Contains 1 kilogram (32.15 troy ounces) of 99.9% pure silver.

Fifth Release in Lunar Series II – Part of a prestigious 12-coin program from The Perth Mint.

Iconic Dragon Design – Features a traditional Chinese-style dragon with stylised fire and the Chinese character for “dragon”.

Legal Tender – Issued as Australian legal tender under the Currency Act 1965, with a denomination of $30 AUD.

Highly Sought-After – Large-format coins from this series are popular for both display and long-term precious metal holdings.

Perfect Gift or Commemorative Piece – Ideal for individuals born between 23 January 2012 and 9 February 2013, or for milestone celebrations.

Design & Craftsmanship

Reverse – The reverse showcases a beautifully detailed depiction of a Chinese dragon, a symbol of imperial power, strength, and good fortune. The design includes stylised flames, the Chinese character for “dragon”, and the inscription “Year of the Dragon”. The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark is also included.

Obverse – The obverse features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, along with the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II”, “AUSTRALIA”, “2012”, and the coin’s weight, purity, and face value.

The coin is struck in brilliant uncirculated quality, showcasing exceptional detail on both sides, especially across the dragon’s scales, claws, and fiery breath.

Cultural & Historical Significance

The Chinese lunar calendar, believed to date back over 2,600 years, is one of the oldest chronological systems in recorded history. Based on the moon's cycles, the calendar assigns an animal to each year in a 12-year rotation.

The Dragon is the fifth sign in the zodiac, following the legendary race in which the mouse claimed victory by riding the ox’s back. The dragon is unique among zodiac animals as the only mythical creature. In Chinese astrology, people born under the sign of the Dragon are known for their charisma, leadership, ambition, and good fortune.

Authentication & Specifications

Metal – 99.9% pure silver

Weight – 1 kilogram (32.15 troy ounces)

Denomination – 30 Australian Dollars (AUD)

Mint – The Perth Mint (Australia)

Series – Australian Lunar Series II

Year – 2012

Edge – Reeded