2 oz Chinese Lunar Silver Coin

The 2 oz Emirates Gold Chinese Lunar Silver Coin

The Emirates Gold Chinese Lunar coin brings the Chinese zodiac tradition into a 2 oz silver format from a UAE-based private mint. Each year's release depicts the corresponding animal of the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. The series combines the culturally significant lunar calendar theme with the accessibility of a 2 oz bullion weight at .999 fine silver.

Emirates Gold is a private mint and refinery headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, LBMA-accredited for gold. Their Chinese Lunar series competes in a market alongside more established lunar programmes from the Perth Mint, Royal Mint, and Royal Canadian Mint. The appeal of this version lies in its 2 oz format and competitive pricing relative to sovereign mint alternatives, though it sacrifices the recognition and liquidity advantages that government-backed coins offer.

The Chinese zodiac has been applied to bullion coins since 1981 when the People's Bank of China issued the first modern lunar zodiac coins. The Perth Mint's Lunar series (launched 1996) popularised the concept for Western bullion investors, and multiple mints now produce annual zodiac releases. Dragon year issues consistently command the highest demand across all programmes, reflecting the dragon's significance in Chinese culture as a symbol of power and prosperity.

Emirates Gold 2 oz Chinese Lunar Silver Specifications

The .999 purity is the baseline standard for silver bullion, meeting investment-grade thresholds in most jurisdictions. The coin lacks legal tender status, distinguishing it from sovereign mint lunar coins that carry face values from their respective governments. Emirates Gold's LBMA accreditation for gold production supports their credentials as a refiner, though the accreditation applies specifically to their gold operations.

Annual design changes follow the Chinese zodiac calendar. The 12-year cycle means the full series comprises twelve distinct designs, with each animal appearing once before the cycle restarts. The Dragon and Tiger years typically generate the strongest demand due to their cultural significance and visual appeal.

Emirates Gold operates as a refinery and mint in the United Arab Emirates with LBMA accreditation for gold. Their production facilities produce coins and bars for regional distribution, primarily serving Middle Eastern and Asia-Pacific markets. The Chinese Lunar coins are shipped in individual protective capsules and carry the Emirates Gold hallmark as authentication. Each year's zodiac design is distinct, making the complete 12-coin cycle a self-contained collection.

Tax Position for Emirates Gold Lunar Coins

United Arab Emirates

The UAE has 0% VAT on investment bullion, including silver. No capital gains tax applies. For UAE-based buyers, this is one of the most tax-efficient jurisdictions for silver acquisition globally.

United Kingdom

Subject to 20% VAT on purchase as silver bullion. Not CGT-exempt because it lacks legal tender status (let alone UK legal tender). UK buyers seeking CGT-free silver coins should look to the Silver Britannia range.

United States

As a private mint product without legal tender status, IRA eligibility is unlikely. The IRS typically requires government-issued coins or bars from NYMEX/COMEX-approved refiners. State-level sales tax exemptions may still apply based on the .999 purity in bullion-exempt states. Capital gains taxed at the 28% collectibles rate.

Singapore

The Investment Precious Metals (IPM) scheme requires silver to be 99.9%+ purity from qualifying sources. Private mint products may qualify if the refiner is on the MAS-approved list. No capital gains tax in Singapore.

Australia

GST-free if meeting investment-grade criteria (99.9%+ in a form commonly traded). The absence of legal tender status does not disqualify bullion from the GST exemption in Australia; purity and form are the determining factors.

Emirates Gold Lunar vs Perth Mint Lunar and Other Zodiac Silver

The Perth Mint's Lunar series is the dominant lunar bullion programme globally, available in 1 oz, 2 oz, 5 oz, 10 oz, and 1 kg silver at .9999 purity. The Perth Mint version offers higher purity (.9999 vs .999), legal tender status (Australian dollar), wider dealer recognition, and stronger resale liquidity. It will also cost more per ounce. For buyers prioritising recognition and ease of resale, the Perth Mint Lunar is the safer choice.

The Royal Mint's Shengxiao series provides a UK-issued alternative with CGT exemption for British buyers. The Royal Canadian Mint does not produce a dedicated lunar silver series, though their gold Lunar programme exists.

The Emirates Gold version appeals to price-sensitive buyers in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific who want a 2 oz lunar coin at a lower premium than Perth Mint products. The UAE tax environment (0% VAT, 0% CGT) eliminates the cost disadvantage that private mint products face in VAT jurisdictions. For a buyer based in Dubai or Singapore purchasing at local premiums, the Emirates Gold Lunar provides zodiac-themed silver at a competitive price point.

Against non-lunar alternatives at the same weight, the 2 oz RCM Bull and Bear and 2 oz Britannia both offer sovereign mint backing and higher purity. The choice comes down to whether the buyer values the zodiac theme and annual collectibility over the tax and liquidity advantages of government coins.