2016 1 oz Macao Silver 2016 1 oz Macao Silver Lunar Monkey PP PP

This 1-ounce silver coin is struck to Proof (PP) quality, a testament to its superior minting. Proof coins feature a highly polished, mirror-like background that starkly contrasts with frosted, raised design elements, creating a visually stunning effect prized by collectors.

Key Features and Specifications:

Year of Issue: 2016 (Year of the Monkey)

Metal: 1 Troy Ounce (approximately 31.1 grams) of .999 Fine Silver.

Diameter: 40.7 mm

Denomination: 20 Patacas (MOP) – a symbolic face value for this collector's item.

Quality: Proof (PP) – characterized by multiple strikes on specially prepared blanks, resulting in a flawless, highly reflective field and detailed, frosted motifs.

Mintage: Limited to 8,000 pieces worldwide, making it a moderately scarce and collectible issue.

Mint: Exclusively minted and marketed by The Singapore Mint for Macao.

Design Elements:

Obverse (Monkey Side): The obverse of the coin features the outline of a witty monkey holding a heavenly peach. A shower of peach blossoms in full bloom graces the background. In Chinese folklore, heavenly peaches ripen only once every several thousand years and bestow longevity upon those who consume them. Therefore, peaches are powerful symbols of immortality, wealth, abundance, and everlasting good fortune. The monkey, often associated with these peaches in traditional Chinese culture, symbolizes wit, intelligence, and agility. This imagery subtly hints at good luck, health, and prosperity in the new lunar year.

Reverse (Landmark Side): The reverse of the coin showcases the Holy House of Mercy (Santa Casa da Misericórdia), a prominent historical building located within the Historic Centre of Macao and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 1569 under the orders of the Bishop of Macau, the Holy House of Mercy has a long history as a source of medical and social assistance for the underprivileged. This iconic landmark serves as a reminder of Macao's unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultural heritage.

Packaging:

As a Proof coin, it is typically presented in a luxurious, custom-designed display case (often a velvet-lined box) and accompanied by an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity (COA) from the Monetary Authority of Macao or The Singapore Mint.

This 2016 Macao 1 oz Silver Lunar Monkey Proof coin is a popular choice for collectors of lunar series, silver coins, and those interested in Macao's rich cultural and historical narratives.