1 oz, South Africa, 2025, Silver, Big Five III - Lion

South Africa made history on 3 July 1967 with the launch of the Krugerrand, the world’s first modern bullion coin. Created to promote South African gold on the international market, the Krugerrand set the standard for bullion coins and continues to be issued today.

Over the years, the South African Mint expanded the Krugerrand range by introducing fractional denominations and exploring alternative metals and designs. These innovations include the 1 oz Silver Krugerrand, the Protea series, the Natura series, and various one-year commemorative issues. Early silver coins were struck in Sterling silver (92.5%), later transitioning to fine silver (99.9%). While the Sterling versions are slightly heavier, both contain exactly one troy ounce of pure silver—also known as 1.000 oz Absolute Silver Weight (ASW).

The Big Five III: Honouring Africa’s Iconic Wildlife  

This coin is the second release in the Big Five Series III—the third iteration of the acclaimed wildlife-themed collection from the South African Mint. The series celebrates Africa’s rich natural heritage by depicting the continent’s most iconic and powerful animals on legal tender: the Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhinoceros, and Buffalo.

The Big Five series was first introduced in 2019, with new designs issued every six months, beginning with the Elephant and the Lion. In African symbolism, the male lion often represents royalty and strength, while the lioness stands for motherhood and femininity.

The 2025 release presents a new artistic rendition of the lion on the obverse. The South African Mint credits the design team as follows:

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

The term “Big Five” originated during the colonial era when big-game hunters came to Africa in search of the most challenging animals to hunt on foot. Locals identified the five most dangerous and respected animals: the Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhino, and Buffalo.

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