Core Viewpoint - The People's Bank of China announced the issuance of the 2026 New Year commemorative coins and banknotes starting from December 22, 2026, including four types of currency: a bicolor copper alloy commemorative coin, a commemorative banknote, a gold commemorative coin, and a silver commemorative coin, all of which are legal tender in the People's Republic of China [1]. Issuance Details - A total of 4 types of currency will be issued, including 1 bicolor copper alloy commemorative coin, 1 commemorative banknote, 1 gold commemorative coin, and 1 silver commemorative coin [1]. - The bicolor copper alloy commemorative coin and the commemorative banknote will be issued through a reservation exchange method, with Jiangsu Province set to issue 5.68 million pieces of each [1]. Design Features - The design of the bicolor copper alloy commemorative coin features traditional Chinese paper-cutting art combined with decorative elements, showcasing a horse image along with lanterns and daylily patterns [7]. - The commemorative banknote's front features a horse design, the national emblem, and the inscription "People's Bank of China," while the back highlights a festive scene with children celebrating, incorporating elements from various ethnic minority languages [7]. Issuance Volume and Collectibility - The issuance volume of the bicolor copper alloy commemorative coin is set at 100 million pieces, and the commemorative banknote at 100 million pieces, both available for reservation with a limit of 20 pieces per person [14]. - The gold and silver commemorative coins have a significantly lower issuance volume, with a maximum of 150,000 pieces for the 1-gram gold coin and 1 million pieces for the 8-gram silver coin, representing a 33.33% reduction compared to previous series [14]. Market Analysis - Collectors believe that while the ordinary commemorative coins and banknotes may experience short-term price fluctuations due to their large issuance volume, their long-term appreciation potential is limited [14]. - The gold and silver commemorative coins are viewed as more valuable due to their reduced issuance and unique designs, with the 8-gram silver coin expected to attract higher market attention [14]. Reservation and Exchange Process - Residents in Jiangsu can reserve the bicolor copper alloy commemorative coin and banknote through designated banks, with the reservation period set for January 13-14, 2026, and exchange from January 20-26, 2026 [15]. - Valid identification for the reservation and exchange must be the original second-generation resident ID card, with provisions for proxy handling under certain conditions [15].