- Country:Canada
- Collection:Silver Lunar $15
- Metal:Silver
- Year:2013
- Denomination:$15
- Finish:Proof
- Weight (oz):1.009
- Purity:0.9999
- Mintage:14213
- Product type:Coin
According to the Chinese Zodiac, the year 2013 is ruled by the Snake. This coin celebrates the unique heritage and ancient culture of Chinese Canadians.
This coin is certified to be 99.99% fine silver with a weight of 31.39 grams and a diameter of 38 millimetres. The reverse image design by Canadian artist Aries Cheung centres on a stylized snake coiling upright, head at the top of the coin's polished field and tail at the bottom. The snake is engraved with a pattern of swirling motifs that recall the curling waves that approach the snake from the reverse image's left side. The snake is flanked, on its right, by the Chinese symbols for the snake. The reverse also features the word "CANADA," the date "2013," and the face value of "15 DOLLARS." The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by artist Susanna Blunt.
The Chinese lunar calendar was first introduced by Emperor Huan Ti in 2637 BC; a cycle of twelve years, each named after a different animal. Legends abound how the zodiacs were chosen. Some believe Lord Buddha summoned the animals to bid him farewell when he parted the Earth and rewarded his loyal subjects by naming a year after them-the Year of the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. The character of each animal is believed to influence the events, political and economic conditions of its year; even the personality and temperament of individuals born during its cycle.
The year 2013 is ruled by the Snake. The Snake personality is graceful and soft-spoken. It has a hypnotic beauty and never gives itself totally away. The mysterious Snake is a strategic planner that has everyone guessing its next move. It will keep plotting until it gets what it wants. And when it does, it is not likely to let go. The Snake is a strong individual and is usually destined for great success.
The Year of the Snake also ruled 1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989 and 2001. However, people born in January or February should consult the Chinese lunar calendar. New Year does not automatically fall on January 1st. This celebration is better known as the Spring Festival and coincides with the first day of spring-a date that shifts from year to year depending upon the lunar cycle and solar year
Face Value:15 dollars
Mintage:28,888
Composition:99.99% fine silver
Weight (g):31.39
Diameter (mm):38
Edge:Serrated
Finish:Proof
Certificate:Serialized
Artist:Aries Cheung
