Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. The one ounce (1 oz) silver coins are denominated as either two pounds (£2) or five pounds (£5), depending on the occasion.
Initially, these were only of the Britannia type, but in 2015 the Royal Mint started to use the format for coins with other types of reverse designs, celebrating various aspects of British heritage.
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 2020 Year of the Rat 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 who are born under the sign of the Rat are thought to be quick-witted, practical, adaptable, kind and intelligent. With strong intuition skills, they always easily adapt to a new environment. With rich imaginations and sharp observation, Rats can take advantage of various opportunities well. Rats are very curious, so they tend to try their hand at anything.
People born under the sign of the Rat have quick minds and dexterous hands, enabling them to make it easier to learn new skills. With an active, almost hectic nature, Rats enjoy a flexible social circle and tend to flit between friendship groups when they please. They are interested in attending different kinds of social occasions and events. They like to make new friends but they rarely have many that are very close. Rats have a charming appearance, which can attract even more friends."
The one ounce silver coins were issued as "bullion" (Brilliant Uncirculated grade), as well as proofs for collectors. | 
Search for United Kingdom: Silver Ounce 2020 Year of the Rat, Proof on eBay 
