1988 China 5 oz Gold Lunar Dragon 500 Yuan Proof

---

This impressive 1988 commemorative coin is struck from five troy ounces of 99.9 percent pure gold, representing a remarkable fusion of traditional artistry and precious metal craftsmanship. Issued as legal tender by the People's Republic of China, this piece belongs to the celebrated Chinese Lunar Series, an annual numismatic tradition that first commenced in 1981. The obverse side displays the historic Badaling section of the Great Wall of China, a monumental architectural feat, alongside the 1988 year of issue. On the reverse, a highly detailed design honors the mythical creature of the lunar cycle. The composition features a central trio of dragons surrounding a single orb, which is itself encircled by an additional four dragons, creating a dynamic pattern of seven dragons in total. With a limited global production of only 3,000 pieces, this proof-quality coin stands as a fascinating artifact of China's modern minting history, capturing cultural symbolism in heavy, pure gold.