Natura - 2003 The Lion, Prestige Set (4 coin set, 24 ct gold)

The Natura theme is a very special series and was first minted by the South African mint in 1994. The legal tender Natura series was South Africa’s first 24-carat (Au 999.9) gold coin series. This series became very popular over the years and sought after by both investors and collectors worldwide and received numerous international awards.  Every year the South African Mint releases this great collector’s item and it's always a well-kept secret.

In 2003 to celebrate the Lion, the South African Mint released a very special Limited Issue Natura Lion Gold Proof 4 Coin Set all struck in solid Fine 999.9 Gold and includes the 1oz, 1/2oz, 1/4oz and 1/10oz coins and is the second in the series of the Wild Cats of Africa series.

Male Lions reach their prime at five years of age, at which point their lives come into play: to fight for territory and to procreate.  If a male is powerful enough on his own, or if he is part of a powerful coalition of males, as he reaches adulthood he will try to kill or expel the dominant male or males of an existing pride.

The prime years for males are short-lived. At eight years of age, they are already losing weight and mane hair and it is at this stage that the pride's patriarch will probably be ousted. Most male lions retain dominance over a pride for only two years, while they live for about twelve. Females live for ten to fifteen years.

The reverse of the Natura coins features a majestic male lion in the prime of his reign.

The obverse is a portrait of a dominant male and a dominant female. The coin with its classic features depicts the royalty of the African Lion.