Chinese Silver Panda (1 oz)

1983-Present • China • 10 Yuan

About This Coin

The Chinese Silver Panda is unique among bullion coins - the panda design changes every year (except 2001-2002). Highly collectible due to changing designs and lower mintages than other major bullion coins.

Specifications

Composition

99.9% Silver

Weight

31.1 grams (1 troy ounce) - note: changed to 30g in 2016

Diameter

40 mm

Edge

Reeded

Designer

Changes annually

Mintage

Varies (600,000 to 10,000,000)

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	N/A (bullion)
Good (G)	N/A (bullion)
Fine (F)	N/A (bullion)
Very Fine (VF)	N/A (bullion)
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	Silver spot + $5-10
Uncirculated (MS)	Silver spot + $10-30+ (rare years/designs much more)

* Values are estimates based on market data and may vary significantly based on specific condition, mint mark, and market demand.

Identification Tips

The obverse shows the Temple of Heaven in Beijing (consistent design). The reverse features a giant panda - this design changes annually, making each year unique. From 1983-2015, pandas were 1 troy ounce (31.1g). From 2016 onward, they're 30 grams (.9645 oz) to align with metric standards. Face value is 10 Yuan. Check for encapsulation - Chinese Pandas are often sealed by NGC or PCGS with higher premiums.

Historical Context

First issued in 1983 by the China Mint, the Silver Panda program was revolutionary for featuring a changing annual design (only the panda design changes, Temple of Heaven remains constant). This makes them highly collectible beyond bullion value. In 2016, China switched from troy ounces to grams to align with metric system - a significant change in the series. Mintages are generally lower than American Eagles or Maple Leafs, adding scarcity premium.

Notable Varieties

1983 (first year)
1989 (small date)
1995 Large vs Small Date
2001-2002 (same design)
Pre-2016 (1 oz) vs 2016+ (30g)
Sealed vs Unsealed

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Chinese Pandas have high premiums?

Pandas typically cost $5-30+ over spot because: 1) Changing annual designs attract collectors, 2) Lower mintages than Eagles/Maples, 3) Strong demand in Asia, 4) Beautiful artistic designs, 5) Many collectors buy sealed (NGC/PCGS) for higher premiums. Early years can command $50-200+ over spot.

Should I buy Silver Pandas as investment?

They're good if you want collectibility beyond bullion value. Certain years appreciate significantly (1989 Small Date, 1995, early years). However, premiums are higher than generic bullion. Best for collectors who enjoy the changing designs or want numismatic potential beyond silver content.