2018 50c Tetra-Decagon Uncirculated Coin - Year of the Dog

As the Chinese Lunar Calendar ushers in the Year of the Dog in 2018, this coin celebrates the honest, friendly and trustworthy people born under this Zodiac sign. Combining an artistic design with the tetra-decagon shape unique to this series this coin will be a cherished souvenir for those who celebrate coins or Chinese customs.

HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE
The Chinese Zodiac, Sheng Xiao, has its basis in a twelve-year cycle. Each year is represented by one of twelve animals with unique personality traits, with these characteristics being passed on to people born in that year. In 2018, the Lunar Year of the Dog will see the births of many people who are said to be faithful, courageous, agile, smart and warm-hearted.

The Chinese calendar also rotates through the elements of earth, fire, water, metal, and wood as part of a larger 60-year cycle. The earth dogs born this year will also be communicative, serious, and responsible in work.

At many Chinese celebrations, holidays and special events, monetary gifts are given to wish hope and prosperity to younger people. These offerings are traditionally given in red envelopes, a colour which both symbolises good luck and wards off evil forces.

FEATURES AND DESIGN
• Unique tetra-decagon shape, exclusive to this coin series
• Coin’s reverse features an artistic design of the Dog
• Obverse features Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II effigy sculpted by Ian Rank-Broadley
• Australian legal tender