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

The prestige set is comprised of all four gold coins in the 2015 Natura range: the R100 1oz, R50 1/2oz, R20 1/4oz and the R10 1/10oz.

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.

The reverse of each of the four pure-gold coins depicts a different aspect of the jackal's behaviour.