Big Five III (1.) - Elephant - 2024
5 Oz Silver - Proof

• 1st Issue in the new Big Five III Series
• Second 5 Oz silver Elephant
• Mintage only 500 pieces worldwide
• With numbered Certificate of Authenticity
• Delivery in original wooden Box

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.

This 2024 issue is the second 5 Oz silver Elephant ever released, and the first ever release in proof quality. Struck from five ounces of 99.9% silver, the motive shows a full-body depiction of a full-grown elephant. The inscriptions “SOUTH AFRICA”, “BIG FIVE 2024” and the South African coat of arms are also part of the design. The reverse shows two halves of an elephant's head. If you place two of these coins next to each other, you get a complete close-up portrait of an elephant. If several of these coins are placed next to each other, a whole herd of elephants can be seen. In the center are the face value “FIVE RAND”, the weight “5OZ” and the fineness “Ag 999”. A special feature is the filigree engraving of a yellow-billed oxpecker (Buphagus africanus), which points to the importance of an integrated ecology and is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

The African elephant (Loxodonta africana) is probably the largest and most impressive representative of the African animal kingdom and is generally regarded as a symbol of power and strength. The “gentle giant” is characterized by its excellent memory and very pronounced social behaviour. In the wild, the elephant can live up to 60 years - but the threat from poachers remains high to this day. The Big Five III Elephant 5 oz silver proof coin is limited to only 500 pieces worldwide and is delivered in the original wooden box including a numbered certificate of authenticity.