国际英语新闻：U.S. Treasury unveils new Lucky Money products for Chinese Lunar New Year

WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (Xinhua) -- In celebration of the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year, the U.S. Treasury Department on Tuesday unveiled two new Lucky Money products, "Year of the Rabbit" and " Lucky Lion."

U.S. Treasurer Rosie Rios formally unveiled the newest additions to the Lucky Money Collection at a news conference at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP).

The "Year of the Rabbit" is one of the 12 zodiac symbols associated with the Chinese Lunar Calendar. This lucky money product is exquisitely designed with decorative Chinese symbolism and is packaged in a red folder with gold foil.

The product features an uncirculated one-dollar note with a serial number beginning with "8888," which is seen by many Chinese as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.

The "Lucky Lion" includes a 10-dollar note with a serial number beginning with "8888." This is the first time a Lucky Money product has featured a 10-dollar note since the BEP introduced such kind of products in 2000.

The "Lucky Lion" is attractively presented in a decorative folder capturing the significance of Chinese numerology and is encased in a protective, clear, acid-free polymer sleeve.

"According to the legend, the lion is a symbol of strength and protects people from misfortune. It is also believed the shining light from the lantern guides the way toward prosperity and happiness," said Rios.

Both products will be on sale starting Wednesday. The "Year of the Rabbit" is sold for 5.95 dollars and only 88,888 will be available for sale. The "Lucky Lion" is limited to 8,888 and is available for the price of 28.88 dollars.

The Lucky Money products have been well received both domestically and internationally, with a total sales of around one million since 2000, according to Treasury officials.