Like so many ancient traditions, the origin stories of the Chinese Zodiac vary. Some say that the Buddha called on animals to help mankind and only twelve responded. Others say a Great Race was held to determine which animal would be placed in the zodiac for eternity.
The Royal Mint are celebrating each animal on the Zodiac calendar with their Lunar Year Shēngxiào Collection £5 series – a collection that has become a cornerstone for UK coin collectors.
Latest Release: 2026 – Year of the Horse £5
The Year of the Horse is here! On 17 February 2026, celebrations will begin across the world to welcome the Lunar New Year. Families will gather for feasts, fireworks will light the skies, and children will receive traditional red envelopes filled with lucky money.
To celebrate this the Royal Mint have just released the very first 2026-dated coins in a brand new range. The new release features the Horse, a powerful and spirited symbol in the Chinese Zodiac. Associated with strength, vitality, and independence, those born under this sign are known for their courage, optimism, and quick wit. With their energetic and pioneering spirit, they are natural trailblazers.
The 2026 UK Year of the Horse £5 coin is a stunning addition to the Shēngxiào Collection.
- Design: Artist William Webb has captured an athletic thoroughbred, standing proudly against the cobblestones of an early eighteenth-century stable block. The composition perfectly blends Chinese cultural symbolism with British heritage.
- Key Features:
- Part of The Royal Mint’s ongoing Shēngxiào Collection
- Features original artwork designed especially for the reverse
Click here to secure your 2026 Lunar Year of the Horse £5 Coin today >>
Previous Lunar Year Coins
2025 – Year of the Snake £5
The 2025 release of the series celebrated the wisest of the zodiac animals, the Snake, a symbol of intelligence, adaptability, and determination.
Designer Chris Costello depicted the Snake gliding gracefully through grass, its intricately engraved scales catching the light, blending elegance with mystique.
2024 – Year of the Dragon £5
No longer available at The Mint
The Year of the Dragon coin was the first to feature King Charles III on the obverse. The Dragon, China’s most iconic cultural symbol, represents confidence, courage, and intelligence.
Designer William Webb crafted an intricate design that brought the Dragon’s flowing form and power to life.
2023 – Year of the Rabbit £5
No longer available at The Mint
The Rabbit, the luckiest of the zodiac animals, symbolises gentleness, compassion, and kindness.
Designer Louie Maryon portrayed the Rabbit poised elegantly, accompanied by the Chinese character for Rabbit and the year ‘2023’.
2022 – Year of the Tiger £5
No longer available at The Mint
The Tiger is known as the “King of the Beasts”, representing bravery, adventure, and confidence.
Designer David Lawrence depicted the Tiger in a proud, powerful stance, with the Chinese character for Tiger alongside it.
2021 – Year of the Ox £5
No longer available at The Mint
The Ox symbolises strength, patience, and perseverance.
Designer Harry Brockway set the Ox in a rural countryside scene, highlighting its muscular power and calm presence.
2020 – Year of the Rat £5
No longer available at The Mint
The first coin in the Shēngxiào Collection to be struck in Brilliant Uncirculated quality.
Associated with resourcefulness and agility, the Rat was depicted by designer P.J. Lynch sniffing the air in an alert, inquisitive pose.
The Chinese Zodiac – What Animal Are You?
There are twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac, each with its own symbolic meaning:
- Rat: quick-witted, smart, persuasive
- Ox: patient, kind, trustworthy
- Tiger: courageous, adventurous, brave
- Rabbit: gentle, compassionate, lucky
- Dragon: powerful, fearless, charismatic
- Snake: wise, intelligent, adaptable
- Horse: independent, energetic, pioneering
- Sheep: shy, kind, peace-loving
- Monkey: fun, active, energetic
- Rooster: hardworking, practical, observant
- Dog: loyal, generous, diligent
- Pig: tolerant, loving, appreciative of luxury
Which animal are you? Do you match the traits of your zodiac sign? Let us know in the comments below!
A Collection That Grows Each Year
The UK Lunar Year £5 Series is an ongoing celebration of culture, tradition, and artistry. Each year, The Royal Mint unveils a new addition to the Shēngxiào Collection, ensuring collectors can look forward to a fresh design and story that ties into the rich symbolism of the Chinese Zodiac.
>> Explore the UK Lunar Year £5 Series here <<
The post The Chinese Lunar Year £5 Coin Series – The Shēngxiào Collection appeared first on The Westminster Collection.
