Canada Has A New $8 Coin & It Features A Glistening Spirit Dragon (PHOTOS)

The new Canadian coin, titled Spirit Dragon, is made up of 99.99% pure gold and depicts Shenlong coiling and floating across the sky — a dragon of Chinese mythology that "governs the elements upon which agriculture depends: wind, rain, clouds and tempests," the Royal Canadian Mint wrote on its website.

In honour of the Chinese Year of the Dragon, the Mint has unveiled this new gold coin of Shenlong the dragon, strikingly posed front and centre.

Per the Royal Canadian Mint, Chinese spirit dragons are celebrated as gentle mythical beings and stand as one of our most beloved recurring motifs. "Inspired by Chinese mythology, this fourth coin continues our tradition of showcasing the art motifs, symbols and legends that are a cherished part of Chinese-Canadian culture."

Pure Gold Coin — Spirit DragonThe Royal Canadian Mint

The reverse of the new coin, which features the design of Shenlong, was crafted by Simon Ng. The dragon can be seen resting on a bed of clouds with its cheeks puffed all while breathing out a swirling wind.

“The revered Spirit Dragon governs the weather. Hence, I envisioned the dragon with a commanding pose showing his dominion over the elements, such as wind and clouds," Simon Ng said.

The obverse of the coin, which was designed by Susanna Blunt, features the effigy of the late Queen Elizabeth II. The obverse also bears a special marking that includes four pearls symbolizing the four effigies that have graced Canadian coins and the double date of her reign.

Pure Gold Coin — Spirit DragonThe Royal Canadian Mint

With a total mintage of 8,888, the new Canadian coin weighs 1.58 grams and has a diameter of 14.1 millimetres.

While the new Canadian coin's face value is $8, it'll cost you a bit more to get your hands on. The new coin can be purchased on the Royal Canadian Mint's website for $298.88.

When purchased, your gold coin is presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded black clamshell and packaged in a red graphic beauty box, evoking the Chinese New Year “red envelope” tradition of bestowing a wish for luck and good fortune.

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.