Following Canada’s lead, China entered the gold bullion coin market in competition with the Krugerrand for a share of the ballooning private gold bullion market. China, as did Canada, understood the importance of creating a niche. In 1982 the Panda was introduced, becoming the first modern collectible gold bullion coin.

The Chinese Pandas are minted in limited numbers and the design varies from year to year. While in mintage Pandas sell as bullion, but once the production limit is reached, they acquire immediate added value as collectibles. Further value is added as new designs add to the series.

The obverse of the Chinese Panda portrays the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. The Peoples’ Republic of China is inscribed in hanzi over the temple and the mint year is inscribed in Arabic numerals below. To date, three minor variations in the design have been noted.

The Panda’s reverse plays upon the universal appeal of panda bears with an endearing new portrayal every year. The only exception to the annual change occurred in 2002 with the repetition of the 2001 design. Consumer reaction convinced the Chinese that it was a bad idea.

Chinese Pandas are struck from 0.9990 fine gold in five weights – 1/20, 1/10, 1/4, 1/2, and 1 ounce. Pandas weighing 5 and 12 ounces have also been minted irregularly. Proof sets of the Chinese Panda were offered only from 1986 to 1995.

Being the first of its kind alone makes the Chinese Panda series worthy of consideration by any investor. The formula for added value has proven itself over more than three decades, and the panda is arguably the most endearing subject amongst all competitors.