Gold Half Ounce 2015 Jackal, Coin from South Africa - detailed information

South Africa pioneered modern bullion coinage when it first issued the Krugerrand on 3 July 1967 to help market South African gold; it is the first modern bullion coin and is still issued today.

Gradually, the South African Mint started diversifying the range, first by issuing fractional Krugerrands, then by introducing different designs to the gold half-ounce (1/2 oz) format. These include the Protea series, the Natura series, as well as one-year types that do not fall into a particular series. The half-Krugerrands retain their specifications (22-carat gold) while the other coin series issued after 1994 are 99.99% gold; just as the half-Krugerrand though, they contain exactly half ounce of pure gold or 1/2 oz Absolute Gold Weight (0.500 oz AGW).

This coin is part of the Natura series by the South African Mint. This pure-gold coin series was launched in 1994 and has become one of the SA Mint’s most sought-after coin collections, winning many international awards. A new theme within the series, Nocturnal Hunters, was introduced in 2014; the first predator to feature on the coins was the leopard. In 2015, the black-backed jackal is depicted.

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.

On the R50 (1/2oz) coin, a jackal pair which has mated for life is featured. Both sides of the coin were designed by MJ Scheepers.