Perth Mint: Lunar III – Year of the Horse 0.5 gram Gold 2026 Proof
Perth Mint: Lunar III – Year of the Horse 0.5 gram Gold 2026 Proof is a miniature yet exceptionally prestigious collector coin from the third installment of the esteemed Lunar III series, inspired by the Chinese lunar calendar. This issue combines the symbolism of the Far East with the flawless minting quality for which the Australian mint, The Perth Mint, has been renowned for decades.
The Year of the Horse occupies the seventh place in the Chinese zodiac and, according to tradition, is associated with traits such as independence, energy, freedom of spirit, charisma, and a love of adventure. People born under this sign are considered dynamic, courageous, and full of passion. The motif derives from the legend of the great race of animals that determined the order of the zodiac signs—the horse, despite the snake’s ruse, took an honorable seventh place.
The coin is struck from Au 999.9 pure gold, weighs 0.5 gram, and has a diameter of 11.60 mm. Proof quality highlights the mirror-like field and frosted design details, which, given such a small format, requires exceptional precision of execution. Overall, it is an attractive proposition both for collectors of the Lunar series and for those seeking a symbolic gold piece of high aesthetic appeal.
The issue has the status of legal tender in Australia, and its mintage is limited to 10,000 pieces. The coin is offered in a Coin Card format, which facilitates safe storage while emphasizing its collectible character.
Obverse of the coin features the official portrait of King Charles III by Dan Thorne. The legend includes information identifying the coin as legal tender, including the monarch’s name, denomination, and the country of issue.
Reverse depicts a majestic horse in a dynamic pose against a backdrop of mountainous landscapes and open meadows. The composition is complemented by the Chinese zodiac character "Horse", the inscription HORSE 2026, and The Perth Mint’s distinctive "P" mintmark, clearly identifying the producer.