2006 Australia 1 oz Gold Lunar Dog BU (Series I)

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The year 2006 marked the eleventh release in a celebrated twelve-coin lunar calendar series from Australia. This legal tender issue, backed by the Australian government, contains one troy ounce of exceptionally pure 0.9999 gold. Struck to a Brilliant Uncirculated standard, this particular release had a limited production run of 26,334 pieces, making it a notable specimen for those who appreciate low-mintage coinage. On the reverse side, the coin honors the Year of the Dog with a detailed depiction of a beagle standing amidst blades of grass. Alongside this canine portrait is the traditional Chinese character representing the dog. This design captures a sense of alert curiosity, characteristic of the breed it portrays. The obverse of the coin features the elegant profile of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley, as indicated by the tiny initials IRB below the portrait. Surrounding the royal likeness are inscriptions indicating the country of origin, the year 2006, the face value of 100 Dollars, and the weight and purity of the gold content, which reads as 1 OZ 9999 GOLD.