The other silver coin, shown at the left, honors Zhong Kui who is a character in the ever popular Peking Opera “Zhong Kui Marries Off His Sister”.

One silver coin honors Dian Wei who was a military general under Cao Cao during the Han Dynasty. Two silver coins denominated at 10 yuan were also released. This set of coins, officially known as the Peking Opera Facial Makeup Series, includes a gold coin with a denomination of 100 yuan honoring Bao Zheng who was an official during the Northern Song Dynasty and a symbol of justice and integrity. On April 20th, China released a second series of gold and silver coins commemorating famous characters of the Peking Opera.

Zhong Kui has also become one of Peking Opera’s most popular and beloved character roles. Over the centuries, a mythical Zhong Kui evolved who, now immortal, protects others from evil and brings happiness and good fortune. However, just at the moment he achieved the pinnacle of success which would guarantee him fame and fortune, he suffered such misfortune that he took his own life. Zhong Kui lived during the reign (712-756 AD) of Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty.

Peking opera makeup