2017 Australia 1/2 oz Silver Year of the Rooster BU (Series II)

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In 2017, the Perth Mint released a striking half-ounce silver coin as part of the celebrated Australian Lunar Series II. This particular release marked a significant milestone for the collection, representing the very first year that these silver lunar coins were produced with an exceptional purity level of 99.99 percent. Backed by the Australian government as official legal tender, this 50-cent piece combines precise metallurgy with detailed artistry. One side of the coin features an intricate family scene of a rooster alongside a hen and three small chicks, all nestled within a setting of bamboo leaves and blossoms. This reverse side also displays the Chinese character representing the rooster, the English inscription "Year of the Rooster", and the traditional "P" mint mark indicating its origin from the Perth Mint. The opposite side bears the classic profile of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. Surrounding her portrait are inscriptions that confirm the issuing nation of Australia, the 2017 issue date, the face value of 50 cents, and the precise weight and purity, noted as 1/2 oz 9999 Ag.