One Dollar 2017 Year of the Rooster, RAM, Coin from Australia - detailed information

The one dollar coin circulating denomination (written as $1) was introduced in Australia in 1984, replacing the earlier banknotes. The original reverse design by Stuart Devlin featuring five kangaroos - known in Australia as the "Mob of Roos" design - has not been changed since its introduction.

The denomination is also used by both the Royal Australian Mint and the Perth Mint to issue an extensive range of collector coins, which are legal tender in Australia - such as this one.

This coin was issued as part of the Lunar Series of coins to mark the 2017 Chinese Year of the Rooster (28 January 2017 - 15 February 2018).

The Mint says:
These coins combine the talents of award-winning coin designer Vladimir Gottwald with beautiful illustrations by Stevan Stojanovic. Reflecting many of the original Lunar Series design elements these coins are a stunning representation of this zodiac sign.

The Chinese Zodiac, Sheng Xiao, has its basis in a twelve-year cycle. Each year is represented by one of twelve animals with unique personality traits, with these characteristics being passed on to people born in that year. In 2017, the Lunar Year of the Rooster will see the births of many people who are said to be focused on their duties and attentive to fine details while being sensitive to their friends and families.

The Chinese Lunar Calendar also rotates through the elements of earth, fire, water, metal and wood as part of a larger 60 year cycle. The fire roosters born this year will also be deep thinkers who enjoy a life of luxury.

At many Chinese celebrations, holidays and special events, monetary gifts are given to wish hope and prosperity to younger people. These offerings are traditionally given in red envelopes, a colour which both symbolises good luck and wards off evil forces.