The Perth Mints Lunar Series II Silver coins are well known among both collectors and investors for their silver purity and annually changing zodiac designs. The series began in 2008 and highlights the animals of the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, with each year featuring a new reverse image. Because every release introduces a different design, the program has drawn steady interest from collectors worldwide. Right now, 2008 Australian Lunar Mouse 5 oz Silver Coins are available from Provident Metals.

Highlights:

• Arrives in a plastic capsule!
• 1st issue of the Lunar Series II program at Perth Mint!
• Celebrates the Year of the Mouse!
• Final mintage of 3,005 coins!
• Contains 5 troy oz of .999 pure silver.
• Bears a face value of $8 (AUD) backed by the federal government of Australia.
• The obverse features Queen Elizabeth II.
• On the reverse, two mice are shown on a bed of straw near pumpkins.

Each 2008 Australian Lunar Mouse 5 oz Silver Coin is housed in a protective plastic capsule. This release marked the opening year of the Lunar Series II program from the Perth Mint, a collection that continued through 2019. In 2008, the mint offered seven sizes in the series, ranging from a large 10-kilogram silver coin down to a smaller 1/2 troy oz piece. The 5 oz silver version concluded its production with total sales of 3,005 coins.

Obverse

The obverse of the 2008 Australian Lunar Mouse Silver Coin features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. This right-facing effigy was created in 1998 by Ian Rank-Broadley and shows the Queen wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The design was widely used on Commonwealth coinage and remained in use for many years. Inscriptions include ELIZABETH II, AUSTRALIA, 5 OZ 999 SILVER, 2008, and 8 DOLLARS.

Reverse

On the reverse of the 2008 Lunar Mouse 5 oz Silver Coin, two mice are depicted resting on a bed of straw. In the background, pumpkins can be seen behind the animals, adding more visual detail to the design. The artwork reflects the Perth Mints careful approach to engraving and its focus on producing well-crafted coin designs. Inscriptions read YEAR OF THE MOUSE, the P mint mark, and the Chinese emblem for the mouse.

History

The Year of the Mouse, also widely known as the Year of the Rat, started a new twelve-year cycle in the Chinese lunar zodiac during 2008. In Chinese culture, the Rat is viewed as a symbol of intelligence and adaptability. Those born under this sign are often described as observant, quick-thinking, and capable of making smart decisions when opportunities appear.

Ordering

If you have questions when purchasing silver, Provident Metals’ customer service is ready to help. Our team is available at 1-800-313-3315, through our online web chat feature, and by email.