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There is no mint more recognized for its lunar-themed programs and intricate designs than the Perth Mint of Western Australia. Established in 1899, the mint has earned a reputation in the late-20th and early-21st centuries as one of the most respected global producers of gold, silver, and platinum bullion coins. Since 1996, it has been a leader in lunar-themed coinage, offering a portfolio of designs that now includes three separate collections across three precious metals. At DEIGOLDANDSILVERCOINS, we regularly purchase these coins from private individuals, estates, and collectors. If you own Lunar Series silver coins and are considering selling, the overview below will help you understand the background of this series and why your coins may hold strong value when selling to us.
Across all Lunar Series silver coins from the Perth Mint, there are certain features that carry through each program. The 1 oz silver and 1 Kilo silver coins have been a mainstay since the series began in 1996, with the 1 oz coin especially sought after among collectors. These coins usually carry a limited mintage, adding to their appeal and helping maintain desirability when you look to sell. For instance, the 2020 Lunar Mouse from the most recent series was limited to just 300,000 coins.
By contrast, larger sizes such as the 1 Kilo, 2 oz, and 5 oz silver coins were issued without mintage caps, allowing them to be struck throughout the calendar year until demand slowed. Even though they were produced in greater numbers, these coins remain collectible and retain value in the secondary market. For example, the 2020 Lunar Mouse coins were produced through December 31, 2020, in line with demand. Owners of these coins often find strong buy offers because of their recognition and the Perth Mint’s quality.
Another shared trait across the Lunar Series silver coins is the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. Every coin issued as Australian legal tender features her portrait on the obverse. Over the life of the Lunar Series, her image has been updated several times to reflect her reign and age:
For sellers, the specific effigy can sometimes influence interest, especially among collectors who value continuity or rarity in portraits.
The first Lunar Series set the standard. Perth Mint launched Lunar Series I in 1996, aligning with the actual Zodiac cycle starting with the Year of the Mouse. This commitment to matching the traditional 12-year cycle, ending with the Year of the Pig before restarting, is one reason these coins are so highly respected in the numismatic community.
During Lunar Series I, the focus was largely on fractional-ounce and 1-oz silver coins. Proof issues were released for collectors, but the options were limited compared to later programs. Today, these early coins are increasingly scarce. At DEIGOLDANDSILVERCOINS, we frequently purchase coins from this first series, as they are sought after by collectors and investors who want to complete full Zodiac sets.
Lunar Series II marked a significant expansion for the Perth Mint’s lunar-themed releases. Each year featured different artwork for silver and gold issues. For example, the Year of the Dog coins featured a German shepherd with its pup on the silver coins, while the gold version depicted a Labrador retriever.
Another major development was the broader range of weights offered, including:
Lunar Series II also coincided with a shift in silver purity. From 2008 through 2016, the coins were struck in .999 fine silver. Starting in 2017, the mint upgraded to .9999 purity, aligning these coins with its other bullion programs. Coins from this transitional period can generate additional interest from buyers. If you own Lunar Series II coins, especially the later .9999 issues, we provide competitive buy prices because of their recognized purity and global appeal.
Following the success of the first two programs, the Perth Mint launched Lunar Series III in 2020 with the Year of the Mouse. Once again, the collection follows the same Zodiac order while introducing new details and, for the first time, a platinum option alongside silver and gold.
Collectors often look to complete the series as it progresses, which helps maintain steady demand on the resale side. Selling your Lunar Series III coins today can be a smart option if you want to capitalize on their freshness in the market. At DEIGOLDANDSILVERCOINS, we actively purchase these coins from customers, offering fair market rates based on weight, purity, and collector demand.
The popularity of the Lunar Series encouraged the Perth Mint to create special variations and collectible sets. Some of the more notable include:
If you own any of these limited or specialty versions, they can bring added value when you sell. Collectors often seek out these sets, and we are always interested in purchasing them.
The Perth Mint was founded in 1899 as part of the Royal Mint of England’s system. Originally tasked with striking sovereigns, it transitioned into an official bullion producer following the establishment of the Royal Australian Mint in 1965. Today, it operates under the ownership of the government of Western Australia and is the country’s oldest active mint. Its reputation for quality and artistry makes its coins highly liquid in global markets, which benefits you as a seller when choosing to sell your coins to us.
At DEIGOLDANDSILVERCOINS, we specialize in purchasing Lunar Series coins, as well as other Perth Mint issues in gold, silver, and more. If you are considering selling your Lunar Series coins, we make the process straightforward, transparent, and secure. You can contact us by phone, chat, or email to request an instant quote or more information.
Customer satisfaction is at the core of what we do. Many sellers have shared their positive experiences working with us, praising our fair offers, quick payments, and professional service. Read our testimonials to see why sellers trust us for fair offers and professional service.
DEIGoldAndSilverCoins offers over 50 years of trusted expertise in buying, selling, and appraising gold and silver coins in Las Vegas. Backed by certifications from CAC, NGC, PCGS, GIA, and AGL, we ensure every transaction is secure, professional, and rewarding.
