PERTH MINT 2024 CHRISTMAS ISLAND LUNAR NEW YEAR OF THE DRAGON PNC

PERTH MINT 2024 CHRISTMAS ISLAND LUNAR NEW YEAR OF THE DRAGON PNC

The Dragon is the fifth of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. The Year of the Dragon commences on 10 February 2024 and concludes on 28 January 2025. The Dragon symbolises power, honour and success in traditional Chinese culture. Chinese legend states that in the beginning, dragons lived alongside human beings as the first creatures, providing protection and guidance. People born under the Dragon sign are therefore said to be confident, lucky, noble and gifted. The Fortune Dragon is brave, bold and powerful, energised for the coming year. The peony flower, gold ingot and Chinese coin symbolise wealth and prosperity. The Happy Dragon is said to ward off evil spirits with its loud firecrackers. The chrysanthemum flower is a symbol of happiness and vitality, and the cloud motif is an auspicious omen of peace, as well as representing the Dragon’s association with life-giving rain. The Lucky Dragon is decorated with Chinese plum blossoms, which symbolise prosperity and good luck, as well as perseverance, due to their ability to flourish in cold weather. Red envelopes (known as “Ang Bao” or “red packets”) are a key part of Lunar New Year celebrations. Children bestow their best wishes upon their elders and, in return, receive money in red envelopes along with wishes of good luck, happiness and health for the coming year. Lanterns represent good fortune, letting go of the past and welcoming a positive future. The colour red is featured heavily in the designs, for good luck and happiness, and gold symbolises wealth and fortune.