-
Inventory:
2 In Stock
- Product ID: 11139
The China 2012 Year of the Dragon 5 oz Silver Proof Coin is a prestigious and remarkable piece, celebrating the Chinese zodiac's most revered animal, the dragon. Issued by the People's Republic of China, this coin is part of the annual series of lunar-themed releases that honor the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. 2012 marked the Year of the Dragon, a symbol of power, good fortune, and strength in Chinese culture. The dragon is often associated with imperial power, authority, and greatness, making it one of the most culturally significant animals in the zodiac. As a symbol, the dragon is unique to the Chinese calendar, and its appearance on this coin emphasizes the importance of this year for those born under its influence.
The Year of the Dragon 5 oz Silver Proof Coin is notable for its impressive size and striking rectangular shape. Unlike traditional round coins, the rectangular format allows for a more expansive canvas, showcasing the intricate details of the dragon design. This large size, coupled with its 5-ounce weight, makes the coin an eye-catching collector’s item and a valuable investment piece. It is struck in 99.9% pure silver, ensuring both its intrinsic and numismatic value. The high purity of the silver is a key feature for collectors and investors who appreciate the enduring value of precious metals.
The design of the 2012 Year of the Dragon 5 oz Silver Proof Coin is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistic skill of the Chinese Mint. On the obverse, the coin features a powerful depiction of the dragon, which is the central theme of the coin. The dragon is depicted in mid-flight, its body twisting and curving with energy and grace, symbolizing vitality and strength. The detailed engraving and the use of a matte background contrast with the polished dragon, enhancing its prominence and visual appeal. Surrounding the dragon is an inscription in both English and Chinese characters that reads “Year of the Dragon,” along with the year of issue, 2012. This vibrant representation of the dragon captures its majesty and is a fitting tribute to the mythical creature’s significance in Chinese culture.
The reverse side of the coin features the national emblem of the People's Republic of China – the Great Wall of China, a symbol of the nation's long history and enduring strength. The reverse also includes the coin’s denomination of “10 Yuan” and the year of issue. The addition of the Great Wall highlights China's rich cultural heritage and serves as a reminder of its historical significance. This side of the coin, like the obverse, is meticulously designed to balance aesthetic beauty with historical reverence, providing a cohesive and meaningful representation of China’s cultural legacy.
Struck by the China Mint, one of the most respected mints in the world, this coin reflects the high standards of quality and precision for which Chinese coinage is known. The Shanghai Mint, which produced this coin, has a long and storied history, dating back to its founding in 1920. It is one of China’s most prominent mints and has produced numerous high-quality coins over the years, including several that have become highly sought after by collectors. The 2012 Year of the Dragon 5 oz Silver Proof Coin is no exception, featuring a flawless proof finish that emphasizes the sharpness of the design and the coin’s fine details.
The coin has a limited mintage of only 1,000 pieces, making it a rare and highly sought-after collectible. Coins with such limited mintage are particularly valuable because they are not widely available and are coveted by collectors who understand the rarity and potential for long-term value. The coin’s rarity ensures that it remains a premium item in the numismatic market, and collectors who own one of the 1,000 minted examples can take pride in possessing a highly exclusive piece of Chinese coinage.
As a proof coin, the 2012 Year of the Dragon 5 oz Silver Proof Coin features a mirror-like finish, which enhances its reflective qualities and creates a stunning contrast between the polished surfaces and the detailed engravings. Proof coins are struck using specially polished dies, ensuring that the design appears sharp and clear with a high level of detail. This coin is no exception, and its flawless finish showcases the meticulous care and attention to detail that went into its production. The colorized version of the coin adds another layer of beauty, as the dragon’s vibrant colors bring the mythical creature to life in a way that is both visually striking and symbolically meaningful.
In addition to the coin’s design and minting quality, its packaging further elevates its status as a collector’s item. The coin comes with its original box, which provides a secure and protective enclosure to preserve its pristine condition. Along with the box, each coin is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity (COA), verifying its limited mintage and authenticity. The COA is an essential aspect of any high-quality collectible, as it serves as proof of the coin's genuineness and ensures that it is part of the official release by the Chinese Mint. The box and COA also add to the coin's value, as they provide important documentation for collectors and investors alike.
Overall, the 2012 Year of the Dragon 5 oz Silver Proof Coin (Rectangular w Box & COA) is a stunning example of modern Chinese coinage, blending cultural symbolism with exceptional artistry. The coin’s unique rectangular shape, combined with its large size and high purity, makes it a standout piece for collectors. The intricate design, which features a dynamic representation of the dragon, showcases the skill and craftsmanship of the Chinese Mint. The coin’s limited mintage, proof finish, and colorized design make it an incredibly rare and valuable item, appealing to both collectors and investors. As a piece of cultural heritage, it represents the strength, power, and prosperity associated with the dragon in Chinese tradition, while also serving as a lasting symbol of China’s rich numismatic history.