Semi-Numismatic

2008 Australia 5 oz Silver Mouse BU (Series II, Colorized)

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The Year of the Mouse in 2008 marked a creative milestone for Australia's celebrated Lunar Series II. This massive five-ounce silver coin showcases a delightful reverse design featuring two mice nestled together on a bed of straw. Behind them, pumpkins and winding vines create a rich, seasonal backdrop. What makes this particular release stand out is the colorization on the reverse, which brings the harvest scene to life with vivid, artistic detail. Struck from 0.999 fine silver, the coin has a substantial weight of five troy ounces and carries an official face value of eight dollars. The obverse displays the classic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley, confirming its status as a sovereign issue backed by the Australian government. With a remarkably low mintage of just 3,005 pieces, this Brilliant Uncirculated coin is a fascinating study in how modern minting techniques can transform traditional lunar zodiac themes into colorful, dimensional art.