The Republic of China's Panda series was one of the most successful bullion coins of the 1980's. Response in the U.S. to these warm and fuzzy little panda images was very positive, and the concept of a premium-priced bullion coin was established. The Chinese were able to build a steady demand for them regardless of the market price of gold by changing the design every year. Gold Pandas are not only used as bullion; they are often also set in jewelry such as necklaces and bracelets.

Pandas are issued by China at a higher percentage over the actual gold price than standard bullion coins, and pioneered the idea of a modern collectible/bullion coin. They were first issued in 1982 and by 1987 collector interest was so high that some of the one ounce 1982 Pandas traded for over $3,000.