Reverse: In the center, two mice on a bed of straw with pumpkins in the background, the Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark, and the Chinese character for "mouse". Along the rim at the bottom: “Year of the Mouse”.

Obverse: In the center, the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Along the rim on top, “Elizabeth II” and “Australia”. Along the rim at the bottom, “1 oz 999 SILVER”, the year of issue, and the face value.

The ancient Chinese Lunar Calendar dates back beyond 2,600 BC. Based on the appearance of the new moon, it associates a different animal with each year in the 12-year lunar cycle. Traditionally, the first year of the lunar cycle is ‘ruled’ by the mouse. According to legend, the order of the animals in Chinese astrology was determined by their race across a river. Unknown to the ox, the mouse hitched a ride on its back, leaping to victory at the very last second. The tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig followed the quick-thinking mouse and the ox to dry land.

In Chinese culture, each animal is believed to influence the personality of the people born under its ‘rule’. People born in the Year of the Mouse (February 7th 2008 to January 25th 2009) are said to possess enterprising spirits and are willing to work hard to achieve their goals. They are also regarded as quick-witted and insightful, which equips them to succeed at almost anything. Ambition fuels their success, but sometimes it’s a stumbling block, particularly if they take on too many projects at once.