Platinum Ounce 2019 Big Five - Elephant, 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 and metals, such as a platinum one-ounce (1 oz) format. These include platinum 1 oz Krugerrands, other series, as well as one-year types that do not fall into a particular series.

This is the first coin of the Big Five series by the South African Mint, which celebrates Africa’s unique natural heritage by embodying the strength and beauty of the Big Five animals on legal tender coins.

The coins in the series are issued every 6 months, starting with the Elephant and the Lion in 2019. From its versatile trunk and imposing tusks, to ears that flap forward as a sign of intimidation, the African elephant is a symbol of majestic strength and family unity. It is also the largest living land animal on earth, and one of our most intelligent species.

The “Big Five” term originated when big game hunters visited the shores of Africa to shoot for trophies, and locals warned them about the five most dangerous animals in Africa: the Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhino, and Buffalo.

For the creation of this coin, the South African Mint credits: Paul Botes (die-sinker), JA Geldenhuys (artist) and RC Stone (designer).