Success comes to those who work hard and persevere through adversity — that’s the inspiring message behind this 2021 dragon keepsake. Continuing an annual tradition, the Royal Canadian Mint celebrates the Chinese New Year with an affordable 99.99% pure gold coin, which features a dragon-themed design inspired by Chinese mythology. Its reverse tells the story of the carp that persevered and, as a reward for its hard work, was transformed into a triumphant golden dragon.

The reverse design by graphic designer Albert Ng is inspired by the Chinese legend of the Carp and the Dragon Gate and influenced by depictions of Chi Wen, second son of the Dragon King. Having completed the final leap to the top of the waterfall, the carp is rewarded with a transformation and is depicted as a Chinese dragon-headed fish. Beneath it are the water symbols of adversity and obstacles to overcome in order to achieve success. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.