R1, South Africa, 2015, Gold - Nile Crocodile

The R1 (1/10oz) pure gold coin was re-introduced in 1997 as a commemorative coin.   The  South African Reptiles theme was added in 2015 and feature the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus).

The Nile crocodile is the only crocodile species in southern Africa and it's estimated only 12,000 remain in protected natural areas.    The animal is one of the largest living reptiles and grows up to 3 meters.  Its robust body and tail are covered with horny scales. The reptile has a long snout with large teeth, and its eyes and nostrils protrude from the water when the crocodile floats just below the surface.  

Active day and night, Nile crocodiles inhabit rivers, lakes, swamps and estuaries. They often bask in the sun, their mouths agape. At night they move into the water to keep warm. This is also when they do most of their hunting; adult Nile crocodiles prey on fish, large mammals and birds.    The Nile crocodile belongs to the Crocodylia order. Besides birds, it is the only living representative of the ancient group Archosauria, which emerged over 220 million years ago.

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