The Chinese silver bullion coin was introduced in 1983, a year after the release of the popular Panda gold coin. Known around the world for investors and collectors, the coins are especially unique in that each year a new panda design is published. This typically leads to higher premiums compared to the silver bullion coins from other mints worldwide.

The silver pandas in the 80s had different specifications. Remarkably, there were at least two different sizes and different compositions of silver (0.900 and 0.925 fine silver). During the 90's, two versions were minted - proof and uncirculated.

Beginning in 1989 and until today, the silver pandas minted in .999 fine silver contains 1 troy ounce and have a diameter of 40 mm. Since 1998, the coins are issued only in uncirculated quality.

The design of the front, as in the Gold version, depicts the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, and the year of issue.