Big Five III (3.) - Rhino - 2025
1 Oz Silver - Uncirculated

• 3rd Issue in the new Big Five III Series
• 1 Ounce 99.9% Silver
• Mintage only 10,000 pieces
• Delivery in Capsule
  

The South African Mint presents the new Big Five III Series and is continuing the success story of a coveted classic. The South African Mint's Big Five coins are among the most sought-after issues in the world. The Series also contains five coins and shows the impressive wildlife of South Africa. The animals known as the “Big Five” - elephant - lion - buffalo - rhinoceros - leopard - are regarded as emblems and ambassadors of this culturally rich country and represent the African fauna.

The third issue of the new series is dedicated to the rhino. The motive of the coin struck from one ounce of 99.9% silver features a full-body depiction of a full-grown rhino in dynamic motion. The inscriptions “SOUTH AFRICA”, “BIG FIVE 2025” and the South African coat of arms are also part of the design. The reverse shows two halves of a rhino's head. Placing two of these coins next to each other gives a full close-up portrait of a rhino. When several of these coins are placed next to each other, an entire herd of rhinos appears. In the center are the denomination “FIVE RAND”, the weight “1OZ” and the fineness “Ag 999”. A special highlight is the delicate engraving of a Malachite Sunbird (Nectarinia famosa), symbolizing the importance of an integrated ecological system, in which birds play just as vital a role as larger animals. Widespread across Africa, Malachite Sunbirds are known for their long, slender, downward-curving beaks and brush-tipped tongues, which they use to feed primarily on nectar and insects.

In the vast grasslands and woodland savannas south of the Sahara roam two of Africa’s most iconic mammals - the White Rhinoceros and the Black Rhinoceros. Today, their combined population is estimated at around 25,000 individuals, many of which reside in South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park. Rhinoceroses are the second-largest land mammals on Earth, surpassed only by elephants. Despite their immense size and weight, they are surprisingly agile and can reach speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour. While their eyesight is relatively poor, this is offset by their highly developed sense of smell, which allows them to detect scents over long distances. As strict herbivores, rhinos feed on grasses or shrubs, depending on the species. However, these impressive creatures face increasing threats - especially the Black Rhinoceros, which is now critically endangered. The primary reason is the persistent rise in poaching, which has intensified in recent years despite significant conservation efforts. The Big Five III Rhino silver premium bullion coin is delivered in a protective capsule.