5 oz, South Africa, 2021, Silver, Big Five II - Elephant

South Africa revolutionized the bullion market with the launch of the gold Krugerrand on 3 July 1967. Issued to promote South African gold to the world, the Krugerrand became the first modern bullion coin and remains one of the most widely traded gold coins globally.

In the years that followed, the South African Mint expanded its product range—first by releasing fractional Krugerrands, and later by introducing new designs and metals, including silver. One of the most notable additions is the 5 oz silver coin, containing exactly five troy ounces of pure silver, or 5.000 oz Absolute Silver Weight (ASW).

Big Five II: A Tribute to Africa’s Iconic Wildlife

This coin marks the first design in the Big Five Series II by the South African Mint, which celebrates the continent’s extraordinary natural heritage. Each legal tender coin features one of the “Big Five” animals—the Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhinoceros, and Buffalo—portrayed with striking realism and symbolic power.

This release is also significant as the first-ever 5 oz silver coin issued by the South African Mint.

The term “Big Five” originated in the era of colonial big game hunting, when hunters regarded these five species as the most dangerous and difficult to hunt on foot. Today, they are recognized as symbols of Africa’s unique and majestic wildlife.

The Big Five series debuted in 2019 with the Elephant, followed by new designs every six months. The second edition, beginning in 2021, renewed the cycle with updated designs—starting once again with the Elephant.

Coin design credits:

• Paul Botes – Die-sinker
• J.A. Geldenhuys – Artist
• R.C. Stone – Designer

Coin Specifications: