1960 Chinese zodiac: year of the Metal Rat
1960 was the year of the Metal Rat in the Chinese zodiac. It began on 28 January 1960 and ended on 14 February 1961.
1960 is the year of the Metal Rat (Yang). The Chinese year of the Rat ran from 28 January 1960 to 14 February 1961, so anyone born between those dates is a Metal Rat. Babies born in 1960 before 28 January 1960 belong to the Earth Pig of 1959.
1960 Metal Rat personality
People born in the year of the Rat are quick-witted, resourceful and adaptable. Their strengths are sharp instincts, charm and a talent for spotting opportunities; their watch-outs are restlessness and a tendency to worry about money.
The Metal element adds determination, strength and self-discipline, so the Metal Rat of 1960 combines the Rat's nature with metal qualities. Yang years are traditionally seen as outgoing and active.
Careers that suit the Rat: business, finance, writing, research.
Born in January or February 1960?
The Chinese year does not start on 1 January. In 1960, Chinese New Year fell on 28 January 1960.
- Born 28 January 1960 or later in 1960: Metal Rat.
- Born 1 January – 27 January 1960: Earth Pig (1959 sign).
Rat compatibility
| Match | Signs |
|---|---|
| Best (same triangle) | Dragon, Monkey |
| Secret friend | Ox |
| Traditional clash | Horse |
Other Rat years
1924, 1936, 1948, 1972, 1984, 1996. The Metal Rat itself returns in 2020.
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Frequently asked questions
What Chinese zodiac is 1960?
The Metal Rat, for births from 28 January 1960 to 14 February 1961.
What if I was born in January or early February 1960?
If you were born before 28 January 1960, your sign is the Earth Pig of 1959, because the Chinese year had not yet changed.
What element is 1960 in the Chinese zodiac?
Metal (Yang). Metal is linked with determination, strength and self-discipline; its colour is white and gold.
Which signs are compatible with the Rat?
Best matches are the Dragon and Monkey, plus the Ox as a "secret friend". The traditional clash is with the Horse.
When is the next Metal Rat year?
2080. The same animal and element combination returns every 60 years.
How old is someone born in 1960 in 2026?
They turn 66 during 2026.
Source and method
Chinese New Year dates (China Standard Time) were cross-checked against two independent lunar-calendar tables and published listings. Animals and elements follow the traditional 60-year (sexagenary) cycle.