1 oz Silver Elephant - Big Five Series III - 2024

Information on the 1 oz Silver Elephant - Big Five Series III - 2024

The first issue in edition three of the popular Big Five coin series, the 1 oz Silver Elephant - Big Five Series III - 2024 is a South African coin, produced by the South African Mint. The “Big Five” series includes: elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo. These fascinating animals represent the essence of African wildlife and have long been regarded as emblems of South Africa. Standing up to 4 meters tall at the shoulder and weighing several tons, African elephants are true giants. Their large ears are not only used for hearing, but also to keep the body cool when temperatures are high. The trunk is a versatile tool that allows them to breathe, drink, grasp objects and even detect scents over long distances. Elephants are among the most intelligent animals in the world. They exhibit pronounced social behaviour, live in complex family structures, and utilize a variety of communication methods. Despite their size and strength, African elephants are highly endangered due to poaching and habitat loss. Numerous conservation projects are underway to help preserve the populations of these remarkable animals and safeguard their future. The South African Mint has come up with something special for this coin series: when two coins are placed next to each other, a complete close-up portrait of an elephant is created. Adding several of these coins side by side creates the image of a whole herd of elephants. This 1 oz silver coin, in uncirculated quality, is strictly limited to a mintage of 15,000 pieces worldwide and is very popular with collectors. The coin also comes in a blister card including a coin capsule.

The design of the silver coin

The design of the coin features the graceful and particularly detailed portrait of a majestic elephant, striding through the African bush with its ears fully extended. The design depicts its long, mighty trunk and imposing tusks in striking fashion, emphasising its strength and size. The background of the coin shows stylised grasses. The country of origin “SOUTH AFRICA”, the series name “BIG FIVE” and the year of issue “2024” are printed at the bottom. The reverse of the coin is adorned with two halves of an elephant portrait. Positioned between the two portraits, there is a circle showing the nominal value “FIVE RAND”, weight “1oz” and fineness “Ag999”. Big Five Series III also features the depiction of a small bird on the upper tusk.