2015 Natura Launch Set, Coin Set from South Africa - detailed information

The 2015 Natura special edition set is made up of a R100 1oz gold coin (one of four sizes issued in 2016) and a pewter fold-out sundial with a jackal motif; the coin has an obverse privy mark, available only on coins in this set.

A new theme in the Natura coin series, Nocturnal hunters, was introduced in 2014. The first predator to feature on the coins was the leopard, followed by the black-backed jackal in 2015.

The fossil records of the black-backed jackal (Canis mesomelas) found in South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania date back two million years. Today, this ancient form of canid has adapted to a wide range of habitats, from city suburbs to the desert. Its versatility has earned it a reputation of cunningness and superior intelligence.

Also referred to as the silver-back or red jackal, the black-backed jackal has a reddish-brown coat and a black-tipped bushy tail; the fur on its back is a striking blend of silver and black while the underparts are white. The dog-like head, pointed muzzle and upstanding pointed ears are a deep russet red.