2021 Cook Islands 5 Ounce Lunar Year of the Ox Mother of Pearl Silver Proof Coin

This beautiful 5 oz silver coin belongs to the impressive Mother of Pearl Lunar Series and celebrates the 2021 “Year of the Ox”. It is a unique piece of art which results from the technically elaborate coloring and shaping process. A stunning 45 mm natural Mother of Pearl inlay is surrounded by a 65 mm .999 pure silver coin. The design of this inlay taking shape through ultrasonic waves together with the colorization can take up to 3 months in a sophisticated production process. The reverse of the coin portrays an ox in the countryside, inlayed in genuine Mother of Pearl. The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Ox is considered to be the second in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac sign. People who were born under this zodiac sign are characterized by having such traits as persistence, honesty, and straightforwardness. According to Chinese folklore, the Ox is the second animal of the zodiac because it was tricked by the rat into giving it a ride to a party being thrown by the Jade Emperor. When the pair arrived, the rat jumped off and arrived seconds before the ox. Nevertheless, the ox has assumed a place of honor among the celestial signs dur to its importance to agriculture and its low-key nature the never seeks praise for doing its job. Highlights: Latest issue in the popular Lunar Mother of Pearl Series. 5 ounces of .999 pure silver in proof quality finish. Genuine Mother of Pearl Inlay. Super low mintage of just 888 sets worldwide.