2018 Australia 5 oz Silver Lunar Dog BU

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The year 2018 marked a special chapter in the Australian Lunar Series II with the release of this impressive five-ounce silver coin. Struck from highly refined 0.9999 fine silver, this substantial piece carries a face value of 8 Dollars and is backed by the government of Australia as official legal tender. Its production was strictly capped, with only 12,778 of these five-ounce specimens minted for global distribution. On the reverse side, a heartwarming scene unfolds featuring an adult German Shepherd resting in the grass alongside its young pup. Delicate Chinese peony blossoms frame the pair, adding a touch of natural elegance to the design. This side also features the Chinese character representing the dog, the English phrase "Year of the Dog", and the distinctive "P" mint mark signifying its origin from the Perth Mint. The obverse displays the classic effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, as designed by Ian Rank-Broadley. Surrounding the royal portrait are crisp inscriptions detailing the 2018 issue date, the 8 Dollars denomination, and the weight and purity of the precious metal, which reads as "5oz 9999 Ag". This combination of detailed animal artistry and precise minting standards makes the coin a compelling subject for study.