15 Dollars - Elizabeth II 4th Portrait - Year of the Dog - Gold Bullion Coin
| Issuer | Australia |
|---|---|
| Year | 2018 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 15 Dollars |
| Currency | Dollar (1966-date) |
| Composition | Gold (.9999) |
| Weight | 3.135 g |
| Diameter | 18.6 mm |
| Thickness | 2 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#3563 |
| Obverse description | 4th portrait of Queen Elizabeth II facing right wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | ELIZABETH AUSTRALIA IRB 1/10oz 9999 GOLD 2018 15 DOLLARS |
| Reverse description | A Dog standing on rocks and featuring a stylised pine tree in the background, Chinese symbol for Dog to the right |
| Reverse script | Chinese, Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
狗 P Year of the Dog (Translation: 狗 = Dog) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
P Perth Mint, Australia(1899-date) |
| Mintage |
2018 P - BU - 21 966 2018 P - BU - Colored - 3 727 2018 P - Proof - 2 278 2018 P - Proof - In 3 Coin Set - 1 016 |
| Numisquare ID | 1630203900 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This 2018 Australian 15 Dollars coin features the fourth portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, signifying its issue within her long and impactful reign as Australia's head of state. Part of the esteemed Perth Mint's Lunar Series, this piece celebrates the Year of the Dog, an annual tradition blending Western numismatic practice with Eastern zodiacal themes. Its release underscores Australia's prominent role in the global bullion market, offering both intrinsic value and a culturally significant collectible.
Artistry: The obverse showcases Ian Rank-Broadley’s acclaimed fourth effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, a neoclassical representation known for its dignified realism. The reverse, designed by Perth Mint artist Ing Ing Jong, presents a lifelike depiction of a German Shepherd dog, embodying the spirit of the zodiac year. This design harmoniously combines realistic animal portrayal with the traditional Chinese character for 'Dog', alongside the Perth Mint's distinctive 'P' mintmark, demonstrating a blend of contemporary and cultural artistry.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .9999 pure gold, this 3.135 gram coin exhibits exceptional strike quality characteristic of modern Perth Mint production. High points on the obverse include the Queen's hair and crown details, while on the reverse, the dog's muzzle, eyes, and fur texture are typically fully rendered. The small diameter (18.6mm) combined with the high relief ensures crisp, well-defined features, often presenting pristine fields and frosted devices, indicative of superior bullion striking standards and excellent preservation potential.