Canada just got a cool new coin with a snake carved in real jade

The Royal Canadian Mint sells many unique coins, and its latest offering celebrates the Lunar New Year.

The Lunar Year Of The Snake With Jade 2 oz Coin features an unusual design: a 30 mm silver coin embedded with a coiled snake in jade stone.

In addition to the stone, the reverse features a snake wrapped around a tree. It also includes a 24K gold-plated privy mark.

The Chinese Lunar New Year falls on January 29, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake, a symbol of power, wisdom, and longevity. This coin will make an unforgettable gift if you celebrate the Chinese New Year.

Because jade is a natural stone, the colour of each one may vary, making no two coins the same.

Royal Canadian Mint

The obverse, on the other hand, features an unexpected hologram effect. That level of artistry comes at a price: the coin currently retails on the Mint's website for $349.95.

The coin, produced by the German mint MDM and issued in Burundi, weighs 62.69 g, measures 55 mm, and is 99.9 per cent pure silver. Its face value is 25 Francs.

According to the site, the coin has a limited mintage, with only 1,888 pieces available worldwide. This makes it "a coveted treasure for lovers of fine silver and zodiac memorabilia."

It's also beautifully presented in a green and gold graphic beauty box to match the jade stone.

You'll want to watch this piece as the Mint is awaiting stock and the coin is currently unavailable in stores. However, it's set to ship on January 24, just in time for the Lunar New Year.

The Mint has issued other international coins, such as the stunning 400 Years New York City 4 oz. Fine Silver Coin which features different pieces that, when shifted, uncover the history of the Empire City.