Base Metal Coins
| Explore our range of Royal Mint Lunar Base Metal Coins, featuring affordable and highly collectable releases celebrating the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac. Issued as part of The Royal Mint’s acclaimed Shēngxiào Collection, these base metal Lunar coins combine traditional zodiac symbolism with modern British coin design, making them ideal for both new and experienced collectors.
The Royal Mint Lunar programme celebrates each zodiac year through annually changing designs featuring:
This category includes a variety of non-precious metal Lunar releases, including:
Unlike the silver and gold proof editions within the Shēngxiào Collection, these coins are struck in base metal alloys and are designed to provide an accessible way to collect the Royal Mint Lunar series. Many are issued in official Royal Mint packaging with themed presentation cards or information booklets explaining the symbolism behind each zodiac animal. The Royal Mint first introduced its official UK Lunar coin programme in 2014 with the Year of the Horse release, combining British artistic tradition with Chinese zodiac culture. Since then, the series has become one of the most recognisable modern UK commemorative coin collections, with annual releases attracting collectors around the world. Collectors particularly enjoy Lunar base metal coins for their annually changing artwork, affordable pricing and the opportunity to build complete twelve-year zodiac sets without the cost of precious metal editions. Popular years such as Dragon, Tiger and Rabbit releases are especially sought after due to strong collector demand and cultural significance. Community discussions frequently highlight Royal Mint Lunar coins for their artistic quality and attractive presentation formats. Many Lunar base metal coins feature designs created by leading contemporary artists and carry UK legal tender status. Selected editions are also available in certified or presentation formats, making them popular gifts for birthdays, Chinese New Year celebrations and zodiac-themed collections. Whether you are starting a zodiac collection, searching for affordable Royal Mint commemoratives or collecting annual Lunar coin releases, discover our selection of Royal Mint Lunar Base Metal Coins at The London Coin Company . |
