Lunar Dragon, 1/2oz Gold, 2012

While you might think this is a Chinese coin because of the large winding dragon on the obverse side, it isn't Chinese. Turn it over and you'll find the regal visage of Elizabeth II. Actually, rather than being Chinese, these 2012 Gold Lunar Dragons were minted at the Perth Mint in Australia. They commemorate 2012, the Year of the Dragon. When these coins first were revealed and released, there was such a global clamor for them that many gold dealers were unable to get as many as they'd like. This is likely because of the Chinese gold market, which is quite vibrant and to whom these 2012 Year of the Dragon coins should especially resonate. These are, after all, both attractive collector items and valuable investment pieces. Given valid economic realities, these gold coins can please both the eyes and provide a bit of peace of mind.