UNICORN – QI LIN – 2018 2 oz Pure Silver Antiqued Coin – Perth Mint – Tuvalu
USD 141.57
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USD 141.57
Out of stock
Notify me when item is back in stock.
In ancient Chinese culture the appearance of the legendary qi lin was believed to coincide with the imminent birth or death of a great leader.
The creature’s name is a combination of the two characters – qi (male) and lin (female) – and it was therefore considered to signify yin-yang harmony.
The qi lin was portrayed with an equine body covered with the scales of a fish and either antlers or a single horn – the latter responsible for it being referred to as the ‘the Chinese unicorn’. It was often depicted surrounded by fire while also reputed to be able to walk on water.
While the qi lin may look terrifying, it had such a benevolent nature that it never walked on grass or ate living vegetation.
Similarly, the horse-like unicorn, with a single horn projecting from its forehead, has been portrayed since antiquity including the Indus Valley Civilization more than 4,500 years ago.
Derived from the Latin terms uni (single) and cornus (horn), the unicorn was illustrated in Celtic, Medieval and Renaissance European art as a creature of purity and grace. In modern times the fabled creatures are believed by some to have mystical healing powers.
Even though the origins of these auspicious creatures in ancient Eastern and Western folklore are unclear, each lives on in contemporary visual arts, literature and popular culture. The unicorn also represents Scotland in the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
FEATURES
DESIGN
The coin’s reverse depicts exquisitely detailed representations of a qi lin surrounded by a stylised representation of fire and water, and a unicorn. The Chinese characters for ‘qi lin’ and the English word ‘unicorn’ are included in the design.
The Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the monetary denomination, and the 2018 year-date are shown on the coin’s obverse.
No more than 1,000 of the Qi Lin and Unicorn 2018 2oz Silver Antiqued Coins will be released.
PRESENTATION
Each coin is housed in a classic display case within an illustrated shipper and accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
TECHNICAL NOTES
This coin has been individually ‘antiqued’ to give it a unique finish conveying the surface abrasions of an ancient artefact. As a result of this treatment, the appearance of each coin may vary.
SPECIFICATIONS
Mintage: 1000
Material: Pure Silver (99.99%)
Finish: Antique
Weight: 2 oz
Dimensions: 40.5mm
Thickness: 6.0mm