According the ancient Chinese mythology, the universe was divided into four quadrants marking the beginning and end of the winter and summer solstices, and the autumn and spring equinoxes. These heavenly quadrants were known as the ‘Four Celestial Palaces’, with each palace represented by a guardian animal with a corresponding colour, element, and virtue.

The Blue Dragon 

The dragon is considered to be a symbol of supreme power. Although fearsome and frightening, the dragon is also believed to be benevolent, just, and the bringer of wealth and good fortune. The dragon represents spring, wood, and the east, the colour blue, and propriety.

The White Tiger

The white tiger represents autumn, metal, and the west, and is said to be a fierce protector with the power to exorcise evil spirits and grant a good harvest. Representing the colour white, the tiger is believed to be the king of all animals and the lord of the mountains. The tiger is also believed to be the bringer of wealth and symbolic of a good marriage.

The Red Phoenix

The auspicious phoenix represents summer and the south, the colour red, fire and knowledge. Appearing in times of good fortune, the phoenix is symbolic of resurrection and immortality, and is believed to bring happiness to people.

The Black Tortoise

Representing winter, water, and the north, the black tortoise symbolises longevity, wisdom, knowledge, and reproduction. The tortoise is also considered to be the God of water. The ancient Chinese believed there were no male tortoises, and so the females were forced to mate with snakes. As a result, the tortoise is commonly portrayed in an embrace with a snake.

DESIGN

The coin’s reverse portrays the four Chinese ancient mythical creatures with the yingyang symbol in the centre of the coin. The design includes the inscription CHINESE ANCIENT MYTHICAL CREATURES.

The coin’s obverse depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2015 year- date, and the monetary denomination.

The coin’s high relief reverse and obverse are minted on concave surfaces to ensure the optimum flow of metal is achieved by the strike of the die.

The Perth Mint will release no more than 1,000 of the Chinese Ancient Mythical Creatures 2015 5oz Silver Proof High Relief Coin.