The Australian Lunar Series II program was introduced by the Perth Mint in 2008 as the second major collection of lunar-themed precious metals coins. Following the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle, the series honors one animal each year and offers updated designs and improved minting quality compared to the earlier Lunar Series I (1996-2007). With expanded gold and silver releases across multiple weights, Lunar Series II quickly became a favorite among collectors. Right now, 2010 Australian Year of the Tiger 1/2 oz Gold Coins from Lunar Series II are available from Provident Metals.

Highlights:

• Comes with an acrylic capsule!
• 3rd year of release in the Lunar Series II program!
• Honors the Year of the Tiger!
• Final mintage of only 9,781 coins!
• Contains 1/2 troy oz of .9999 pure gold.
• The face value of $50 (AUD) is backed by the Australian government.
• On the obverse is the fourth-generation bust of Elizabeth II.
• The reverse features the head of a tiger in front-facing relief.

All 2010 Australian Year of the Tiger 1/2 oz Gold Coins are packaged in acrylic capsules to help preserve their condition. This particular release stands out for its limited availability, with a final mintage of only 9,781 coins sold. Within the 2010 gold lineup of Lunar Series II, only the largest formats (2 oz, 10 oz, 1 kilo, and 10 kilo) recorded lower sales totals, making the 1/2 oz option one of the scarcer issues from that year.

Obverse

On the obverse of the 2010 Australian Year of the Tiger Gold Coin is the Ian Rank-Broadley portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. This design shows Her Majesty in right-profile relief wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The surrounding inscriptions list identifying details such as the issuing nation, the monarchs name, the year of issue, the coins specifications, and the official face value. The inscriptions include ELIZABETH II, AUSTRALIA, 1/2 OZ 9999 GOLD, 2010, and 50 DOLLARS.

Reverse

The reverse of the 2010 Year of the Tiger 1/2 oz Gold Coin depicts the head of a tiger in front-facing relief. The design emphasizes the animals intense gaze and strong features, reflecting the tigers traditional association with courage and power. Detailed engraving throughout the fur and facial features adds depth to the image and highlights the Perth Mints ability to deliver sharp, realistic wildlife artwork on a compact gold format. The inscriptions read YEAR OF THE TIGER, the P mint mark, and the Chinese symbol for the tiger.

History

The 2010 1/2 oz Australian Gold Year of the Tiger Coin marks the third release in the Lunar Series II cycle and celebrates the Tiger as the third animal of the Chinese zodiac. Struck in .9999 pure gold, this half-ounce coin provides a strong option for buyers who want an impressive gold lunar coin with a manageable size and cost. It offers both collectible value and a meaningful gold weight for long-term ownership.

Ordering

Please contact Provident Metals with any questions about gold for sale. You can call us at 1-800-313-3315, chat with us online, or email us directly.