Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. Most of these by tradition are measured in troy ounces of fractions thereof, but the mint also introduced metric coins measuring one kilogram of pure metal (they are actually fractionally heavier as a whole, to account for the small amount of other metal in the alloy).
The 1 kg gold coins are denominated as One Thousand Pounds (£1,000), although their intrinsic (bullion) value is much higher than their face value. The coins vary in design depending on the occasion (they are "one-year" types usually issued in parallel with smaller denominations with the same reverse designs).
The coins are legal tender but are not intended for circulation. They are targeted at bullion investors or collectors who appreciate the special editions as pieces of art.
The 2019 Year of the Pig bullion coins are part of the Royal Mint's Shēngxiào Collection - a coin series dedicated to the Chinese Lunar calendar.
As the mint says:
"For centuries The Royal Mint has drawn upon its unrivalled heritage, experience, and craftsmanship to evolve and meet the needs of an ever-changing market. In 2014 we struck the United Kingdom’s first Chinese Lunar coins, introducing a new series and a United Kingdom first. The Shēngxiào Collection, named to honour the Chinese zodiac, is a celebration of the UK’s diverse multi-cultural society. At Chinese New Year, gifts and tokens are exchanged, particularly the gift of money in red envelopes, symbolising good wishes for the recipient’s health, wealth and prosperity. These Lunar coins from The Royal Mint embrace this globally observed tradition, lending a unique British angle to an ancient tradition."
"People born in the Year of the Pig are born leaders; they are easy-going, honest and brave. The Pig is thought of as an intellectual in Chinese culture - a character with a great thirst for knowledge. People born in the Year of the Pig are understood to be inquisitive and intelligent and they enjoy exploring different solutions to problems.
People born in the Year of the Pig are known to be diligent, compassionate and generous. They value friendship highly, never betray their friends, unless in drastic circumstances, and are popular in their social circles. Those born under this sign are punctual and very dependable. They devote all their energy to achieving their goals, because of their great concentration, and they rarely seek help but enjoy helping others. People born in the Year of the Pig are admired for their kindness and are among the gentlest and most selfless of the signs in the Chinese zodiac."
The 1kg gold coins were issued boxed, in Proof FDC grade only. Issue price: £49,995.00. | 
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