Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. The one-tenth ounce (1/10 oz) gold coins are denominated as Ten Pounds (£10) and have been issued since 1987.
These 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 coins are typically "one-year" types usually issued in parallel with other denominations with the same reverse designs.
The 2015 Year of the Sheep bullion coins are the second issue in 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."
The design of the 2015 Year of the Sheep coins skilfully uses symbolic elements to create a fusion of Chinese and British heritage. Ancient Chinese symbols for the word "sheep" form tree outlines in the background (of the proof version only), whilst two distinctive Yorkshire Swaledale sheep face each other in the foreground. The intricate details of the design highlight their beautiful curled horns in contrast to the swirls of their wool coats.
The coins were issued as "bullion" (Brilliant Uncirculated grade), as well as proofs for collectors. | 
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