2022 Lion (Series II)

The second release in the Big Five Series II, following the 2021 Elephant. Unveiled at the World Money Fair in Berlin around March 2022 by the South African Mint. This series is part of a multi-metal lineup featuring silver, gold, and platinum, with the launch coinciding with conservation awareness through the Wildlife Conservation Trust.

Obverse:
A refined right-facing lion portrait, capturing the animal's regal demeanor, surrounded by inscriptions “SOUTH AFRICA”, “BIG FIVE 2022”, and the national coat of arms

Reverse:
Features the distinctive bisected-face design with two halves of the lion's face. When two coins are placed side-by-side, the full facial portrait is revealed; aligned multiple times, it forms a pride