Numismatic

2013 Australia 1 oz Gold Lunar Snake Proof (Series II)

---

Struck in one full troy ounce of highly refined 0.9999 pure gold, this 2013 release from Australia celebrates the traditional lunar calendar. The coin is minted with a proof finish, highlighting the sharp contrast between the frosted details and the mirror-like background fields. As a legal tender issue supported by the Australian government, it carries a face value of 100 Dollars. The reverse side presents an artistic depiction of a snake winding through a natural setting of bamboo stalks and tall grass. This design honors those born under the zodiac sign of the snake, which includes the years 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, and 2013. Along with the central image, the reverse displays the traditional Chinese character representing the serpent, the English phrase "Year of the Snake", and the distinctive "P" mint mark indicating its production at the Perth Mint. On the obverse, the coin displays the classic effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, created by sculptor Ian Rank-Broadley, with his initials "IRB" visible below the portrait. Surrounding the royal likeness are inscriptions indicating the country of issue, the monarch's name, the year 2013, the face value of 100 Dollars, and the weight and purity of the gold content.