The Royal Mint has released the 2020 Lunar Year of Rat gold coin, the latest addition to the popular Shēngxiào collection. As the Chinese zodiac cycle starts anew in 2020, this gorgeous 1 oz fine gold coin is intended to celebrate the Lunar Year of the Rat, 2020.

Each Chinese zodiac sign only comes around every 12 years. Dated 2020, this coin aims to capture this moment for posterity. People born in the year of the rat are characterized by their intelligence and versatility. They are quick-witted and resourceful and tend to adapt to any situation they find themselves in.

The reverse of the coin features an impeccable design of a rat on a new, secure, micro-dot texture, showcasing the animal's agility and inquisitiveness. The rat is portrayed against a backdrop of peonies, one of China’s best-loved flowers. Peonies are a common theme in ancient Chinese artwork. These beautiful flowers symbolize wealth, good fortune, prosperity, and happiness.

The reverse includes the inscription “Lunar Year of the Rat”, along with the year, 2020, and weight and quality of the metal.

The obverse displays an effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Jody Clark. It includes the monetary denomination of the coin, 100 pounds.

This coin is struck from 1 ounce of 999.9 fine gold and finished to the Mint’s bullion standard.

The Chinese symbol for rat features prominently. In Chinese culture, the rat is thought of as a godly creature, capable of helping humans by predicting natural disasters like earthquakes.

Since its launch in 2014, the Royal Mint has celebrated this ancient Chinese custom with each addition to The Shēngxiào Collection – honoring the animals of the lunar calendar in turn. The Rat is now in the spotlight and this is a unique opportunity to celebrate your Chinese zodiac sign.

Indeed, this one-ounce gold bullion coin presents a new investment opportunity in this range and is also available as a one-ounce silver edition.

Investing in an ancient Chinese tradition gold bullion has been chosen as an investment by individuals, governments, and organizations for thousands of years. It has long been regarded as a store of value and historically, unlike many other investments, it has maintained its worth through difficult market conditions. With gold more accessible than ever before, this could be the right time to diversify your investment portfolio!