Gold coin 1 Oz Year of the Horse 2026 domed proof

According to the Chinese zodiac, the year 2026 is ruled by the horse. This noble animal is honored with a gold coin that stands out for its proof finish and unusual convex, or bulging, shape.

The Eastern zodiac, also known as the Chinese zodiac, contains twelve signs – twelve animals representing twelve temperaments with both positive and negative traits. Unlike the classic horoscope we are used to in Europe, each of these signs belongs to an entire year, and once all the animals have taken their turn, the twelve-year cycle begins anew... The year 2026 is dedicated to the seventh animal of the Chinese zodiac – the horse. Why this particular ungulate? Legend has it that the Jade Emperor, who ruled the heavens, was looking for someone to guard his palace. Twelve creatures sought the emperor's favor – the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. Their position in the palace was to be decided by a great race on land and water. The fast horse galloped and looked set to finish in an excellent sixth place, but he did not notice that his hooves had been caught by a cunning snake. Just before the finish line, the reptile let go, startling the horse and overtaking him at the last moment. The horse finished seventh... People born under the influence of the horse are similar to this noble animal in many ways. Like show horses, they excel in elegance and are the center of attention. Like racehorses, they energetically overcome obstacles and move forward independently. However, like untamed horses, they can be restless and hot-blooded – they can trample anyone who stands in their way...

The reverse side of the gold coin features a horse gracefully jumping over an obstacle. An additional decorative motif is the branches of the ginkgo biloba, a Chinese tree better known as ginkgo biloba. The composition is complemented by the English inscription YEAR OF THE HORSE and the corresponding Chinese character. On the obverse side, you will find a parade of all twelve creatures of the Chinese zodiac. As the coin is issued under license from Australia, the obverse side also bears a portrait of King Charles III, the nominal value of 100 DOLLARS (AUD), and the year of issue 2026.

The domed medal, minted by the Royal Australian Mint exclusively for Philoro, comes in luxurious packaging.