2004 Australia 2 oz Silver Year of the Monkey BU

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In 2004, the renowned Perth Mint released a striking silver coin to mark the Year of the Monkey. This piece represents the sixth entry in the celebrated twelve-coin Lunar Series I, capturing the spirit of the Chinese zodiac through meticulous design and impressive scale. Struck in two troy ounces of highly pure 0.999 fine silver, the coin is a legal tender issue backed by the Australian government. The reverse side of the coin showcases a detailed depiction of a monkey perched upon a tree branch. Accompanying this central image is the traditional Chinese character representing the monkey, alongside the English inscription "Year of the Monkey". This side also features the "P" mint mark, signifying its origin from the Perth Mint. On the obverse, the coin displays the elegant portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. Surrounding the royal likeness are inscriptions detailing the monarch's name, the issuing nation of Australia, the year 2004, the weight and purity of two ounces of 999 silver, and the face value of two dollars. With a limited mintage of just 18,124 pieces, this Brilliant Uncirculated coin stands as a fascinating example of modern lunar-themed numismatics.