2 oz Pure Silver Coin – Republique du Tchad 2021 – 10000 Francs CFA

The Chinese Sexagenary Cycle (六十甲子) is an ancient method of calculating years, months, dates and time. Consisting of 10 heavenly stems and 12 earthly branches, a pairing of 1 character from the stem followed by another from the branch will derive the sexagenary number of a Chinese year. The 10 heavenly stems are each associated with the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal, and water – while the 12 earthly branches are represented by one of the 12 Zodiac animals.

Those born in this year are referred to as the “Ox on the Road” – strong and trustworthy beings who are blessed with a comfortable life following their working years. Not unlike the bull in Western references, the Chinese ox also carries positive and prosperous connotations. This is further amplified on the collectible with the ox depicted in a striking gold-tone. Auspicious motifs are outlined through its body, and its hooves move with agility as it charges ahead boldly, a strand of silver coins in its mouth that bear the Chinese word for good fortune, “福”. True to the portrayal of an ox on the road, a terrain-like texture is applied to the foreground to complete this piece and bring it to life. The year of 辛丑 is marked in calligraphic strokes atop a red accent to mirror the Chinese wax stamp finishing on traditional art.

The 2 oz pure silver coin is delivered in antiqued silver finishing, with details struck in ultra-high relief and accented with red and gold to highlight the strong ox and the year of 辛丑. The obverse features the legal tender, the Coat of Arms du Tchad.