2008 1oz Australian Lunar Series II Year of the Mouse Silver Coin
Coin (Bullion/Numismatic) · None (Silver bullion)
Purity: 0% (This is solid .999 Silver, not gold)
Type
Coin (Bullion/Numismatic)
Purity
0% (This is solid .999 Silver, not gold)
Gold Type
None (Silver bullion)
Weight
1 Troy Ounce (31.1 grams)
Description
A highly collectible 2008 1oz silver bullion coin from the Perth Mint's renowned Lunar Series II. The reverse depicts a mouse among stalks of wheat, celebrating the first animal in the Chinese Zodiac. The obverse features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. Though sold as bullion, it carries significant numismatic value due to its low mintage and status as the series' debut coin.
Key Features
Series II inaugural release; large 45.6mm diameter for the weight; 'P' mint mark for Perth Mint; frosted design elements.
Color & Finish
Bright white silver with a specimen-like finish; frosted relief against a mirrored proof-like field
Hallmarks & Stamps
'1 OZ 999 SILVER', '2008', Chinese character for 'Mouse', 'P' Perth Mint mark (on reverse)
Dimensions Estimate
45.60 mm diameter, 2.60 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; housed in a protective acrylic capsule
Chain & Links
Reeded (milled) edge
Craftsmanship Details
Superior Perth Mint strike quality; flawless integration of frosted relief and mirrored fields; sharp reeding and lettering consistency.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Perth Mint frosted finish; precise 999 silver stamp; correct 2008 date for Series II Mouse design; standardized coin capsule.
Origin & Maker
Australia, The Perth Mint
Era & Period
Contemporary (Lunar Series II, 2008-2019)
Age Estimate
Produced in 2008 (First year of Series II)
Cultural Significance
Represents the Year of the Mouse (Rat) in the Chinese Lunar Calendar, symbolizing wealth, surplus, and intelligence.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, protected by original mint capsule. No visible milk spots or toning in image.
Value Estimate
$50 - $80 USD (High numismatic premium over silver spot price due to rarity and series demand)
Care & Maintenance
Keep inside the acrylic capsule; avoid touching surface with bare hands to prevent skin oils from causing toning; store in a cool, dry place.
Similar Items
2008 1/4oz Gold Lunar Mouse (Gold version), 1996 Lunar Series I Mouse (different design), 2020 Lunar Series III Mouse.
Interesting Facts
The 1oz silver Mouse from 2008 has a limited mintage of exactly 300,000 pieces, which sold out quickly, making it one of the most sought-after coins in the entire Lunar II series.