Australian Lunar Series III 2026 Year of the Horse Stamp and Coin Cover

A great way to celebrate the Year of the Horse in 2026, this Australia Post stamp and coin cover makes an auspicious gift for those born under the seventh animal symbol of the ancient lunar zodiac. 

Key features:

• Year of the Horse design
• Australian legal tender
• Official Australia Post stamps and postmark
• Colourfully illustrated envelope

Lunar tradition

Lunar New Year, also called the Spring Festival in China, is the most important of traditional festivals celebrated by Asian cultures. The Year of the Horse begins on 17 February 2026 and ends on 5 February 2027. The Chinese zodiac is made up of a 12-year cycle, with animal signs used for dating the years. The recurring animal-year cycle is Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. The seventh sign in the Chinese zodiac, the Horse symbolises perception and power. The fixed element for the Horse is fire and 2026 is the year of the Fire Horse in the sexagenery cycle.

Year of the Horse design

The coin’s reverse portrays a representation of a majestic mare alongside her young foal, both depicted with elegant manes in a striking galloping stance. The background includes an image of mountainous landscapes and grassland. Included in the design is the Chinese character for ‘Horse’, the inscription ‘HORSE 2026’, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark. The obverse bears the Dan Thorne effigy of His Majesty King Charles III and monetary denomination.

Australia Post stamps

The official $1.70 Australia Post stamp features a red and gold-coloured horse decorated with floral motifs and a flame-like mane and tail. A red and gold-coloured horse is also depicted on the $3.40 stamp beside it, decorated with cloud motifs and donning a lantern. The official postmark comprises an illustration of a horse's bust adorned with flames and flowers, encircled by the words 'FIRST DAY OF ISSUE 6 JANUARY 2026 CHRISTMAS ISLAND WA 6798'.

Presentation envelope

The coin is housed in an illustrated presentation envelope featuring a stylised gold and red reared horse along with cloud, floral, and fan motifs. Also featured are the inscriptions 'YEAR OF THE HORSE Lunar New Year 2026' as well as the Chinese character for 'Horse'.