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The Great Britain Quarter Ounce Gold 2016 Year of the Monkey coin is a splendid example of modern numismatic artistry, released as part of the Royal Mint's Lunar Series. This series celebrates the Chinese zodiac and the Year of the Monkey, reflecting both cultural significance and exceptional craftsmanship. The coin captures the essence of the 2016 Year of the Monkey, which is the ninth year in the twelve-year lunar cycle. It is a beautiful addition to any collection, representing both the zodiac’s influence and the esteemed tradition of British coinage.
The Year of the Monkey coin was issued to commemorate the Lunar New Year, a major event in Chinese culture, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm around the world. The Lunar Series from the Royal Mint is renowned for its intricate designs and high-quality production, making it a sought-after collection for enthusiasts of both British and Chinese numismatics. The 2016 coin is part of a series that began in 2014, continuing the tradition of honoring each animal of the Chinese zodiac. The coin’s release is timed to align with the Chinese New Year, reflecting the importance of this celebration in both Western and Eastern cultures.
The coin’s design is the work of the talented artist Wuon-Gean Ho, who has successfully blended traditional Chinese symbolism with contemporary British coinage. The obverse of the coin features a detailed depiction of a monkey, a symbol of intelligence and curiosity in Chinese culture. The monkey is portrayed in a dynamic and playful pose, capturing the essence of this lively and agile creature. Its fur is rendered with intricate detailing, showcasing the coin’s high minting standards. Surrounding the monkey is the inscription “YEAR OF THE MONKEY,” which reinforces the coin’s thematic significance. The reverse of the coin features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Jody Clark. The Queen is depicted in her regal attire, with her name and the denomination “¼ OZ FINE GOLD 2016” engraved around her image. This side of the coin underscores its status as legal tender and highlights the Royal Mint’s tradition of high-quality coinage.
The 2016 Year of the Monkey coin was minted by the Royal Mint in London, a facility renowned for its exceptional coinage standards and historical significance. The coin is struck in 24-carat gold, ensuring a high purity level of 999.9 fine gold. This choice of metal not only enhances the coin’s value but also its durability and appeal. The quarter-ounce size is a popular choice for collectors, providing a balance between affordability and the intrinsic value of gold. The coin’s diameter is approximately 22.00 millimeters, and it has a thickness of 1.65 millimeters, making it a compact yet substantial piece of numismatic art.
The mintage of the 2016 Year of the Monkey coin was limited to 5,000 pieces, adding to its rarity and desirability among collectors. The Royal Mint’s decision to produce a limited number of coins ensures that each piece remains a unique and valuable addition to any collection. The limited mintage also contributes to the coin’s potential for appreciation in value over time, as rarer coins often become more sought-after by collectors and investors alike.
In terms of condition, the coin is available in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) quality, which means it has been struck with a high level of detail and has not been used in circulation. Coins in BU condition are highly prized for their pristine appearance, with sharp details and minimal signs of wear. The coin’s design is carefully preserved, with the intricate details of the monkey and the Queen’s portrait remaining clear and vivid. Collectors value BU coins for their pristine state, which reflects the high standards of the Royal Mint’s production processes.
The Great Britain Quarter Ounce Gold 2016 Year of the Monkey coin is more than just a piece of currency; it is a celebration of cultural heritage and artistic excellence. Its design reflects the playful and intelligent nature of the monkey, while the choice of 24-carat gold and the limited mintage ensure its status as a valuable and collectible piece. Whether as an investment or a treasured addition to a numismatic collection, this coin represents a fusion of British craftsmanship and Chinese tradition, capturing the essence of the Year of the Monkey in a beautifully crafted gold piece.