2009 Canadian $15 Chinese Lunar Calendar: Year of the Ox Sterling Silver & Gold-plated Cameo Coin

2009 Canadian $15 Chinese Lunar Calendar: Year of the Ox Sterling Silver & Gold-plated Cameo Coin

Centuries ago, the Chinese invented a calendar based on the lunar – rather than the solar – cycle. In 1998, the Royal Canadian Mint, inaugurated a remarkable series of coins featuring the animal symbols of Chinese astrology based on the Lunar Calendar. These symbols roughly approximate the signs of the zodiac in western culture, however, denote years instead of months.

Design

All 12 of the Lunar animals – the Rat, the Ox, the Tiger, the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Snake, the Horse, the Sheep, the Monkey, the Rooster, the Dog, and the Pig – appear in a circular arrangement around the rim of each coin, with a different animal highlighted each year in a central cameo.

2004 commemorates the Year of the Ox – strength in the face of adversity “Strong like an ox,” is a loaded sentence, Four small words that speak volumes about the personality behind the Chinese lunar zodiac. It’s not just physical strength, but a special fortitude of the mind that keeps the Ox going no matter how heavy the load nor how difficult the road. What other zodiacs may gain through wit and cunning, the Ox will achieve through sheer tenacity and dedication. Don’t be fooled by the Ox’s quiet and introverted ways. Still waters run deep; the Ox’s quiet and introverted ways; the Ox harbours a dignified blend of intelligence and confidence. He’s not easily bullied and will stand up and speak with captivating eloquence to restore order. He’s the good Samaritan that will come to the rescue and disappear before any can get his name. The Ox is fair-minded and a good listener, but always remember the other adage, “stubborn as an ox”. Don’t count on changing his mind, but count on him. The Ox is one sign you can trust. He’ll never let you down.

Packaging

Each $15 Chinese Lunar Calendar Coin comes encapsulated in a red velvet and gold moire presentation box and includes the Certificate of Authenticity.

Specifications