The Australian Perth Mint has released a new 1oz silver bullion coin, featuring two dragons chasing a flaming pearl, tapping into the growing popularity of Asian-style design themes.

Revered as the embodiment of the Chinese emperor and embraced as a personal talisman, the Chinese dragons have several animal-like shapes such as turtles, and Fish, with the most common depiction of the mythical creatures resembling a snake with four legs.

Unlike Western Culture, where dragons are depicted as flying destructive creatures, dragons in China are traditionally considered as a symbol of power, strength and good luck. They symbolize auspicious powers and control over water, rainfall or floods.

The reverse side of the new coin features two dragons chasing a flaming pearl, surrounded by scrolling clouds. The letter "P" refers to the mintmark of Perth Mint. It was designed by artist Jennifer McKenna. 

The obverse displays an effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, by Jody Clark.

The new coin is struck in 99.99 pure silver, with a maximum mintage of 50,000 pieces.

Sources: Perth Mint, Coin Week