Along with luck and longevity, prosperity is considered one of life’s great blessings in Chinese culture, and a cornerstone for the ideal life. In its ongoing series that celebrates the cultural traditions of Canada’s Chinese communities, the Royal Canadian Mint presents this scalloped-edge pure gold coin that confers upon its owner a sincere wish for prosperity and success. Mintage has been limited to 888 coins—a symbolic number in itself as “8” represents wealth and prosperity,and is considered to be the luckiest of numbers in Chinese tradition. HST/GST exempt.

The design by Canadian artist Simon Ng confers upon the owner a blessing for prosperity. In the centre of the image stands one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac: the ox. Long used in agriculture and for heavy tasks, this animal’s patience and hard work are believed to result in success; it is also a spring emblem that represents a bountiful harvest for the year ahead, with an accumulation of wealth. Here, this auspicious symbol is an image of strength as it steadily moves along the landscape; its belt of five coins is particularly fitting given that coins represent money (and thus, prosperity), while the number “5” is associated with blessings for a balanced life. To the left of the ox, the Chinese symbol conveys the blessing for a “prosperous” year ahead.

A stunning addition to any Asian-inspired collection, and a meaningful gift to convey a sincere wish for success to its recipient.