Product Description
- Second issue of the Big Five II series by the South African Mint
- 1 ounce of 999.5 platinum in proof quality
- Limited mintage of only 500 pieces worldwide
- With numbered certificate of authenticity
- Delivered in a premium wooden case
As part of the renowned Big Five series, this Big Five II Lion edition combines the rarity of platinum with an impressively detailed engraving that strikingly highlights the majestic presence of the African lion. The proof finish lets the noble shine of the platinum unfold and accentuates every fine line of the motif. With its exclusive appearance and the exceptional rarity of the material, this platinum collector coin is among the most sought-after issues of the series.
Product Details
Fineness and Masterful Craftsmanship in Perfect Form
The weight of one ounce of 999.5 platinum gives the coin noticeable substance and creates a harmonious balance between material strength and aesthetic expression. The purity of 999.5 ensures remarkable surface clarity and enables an exceptionally fine engraving. The diameter of 32.69 millimeters allows for a generous design of the relief structures, revealing new nuances with every shift of light. The proof quality creates an interplay of mirrored surfaces and matte areas in balanced contrast. Minting takes place at the South African Mint, where each coin is individually inspected to ensure consistent quality.
Superior Fact:
The Big Five platinum issues in proof finish are struck on specially treated, polished, and cleaned planchets, which are struck at least twice and subsequently individually encapsulated to achieve maximum detail and surface quality.
(Source: South African Mint)
Motif and Design
Powerful Presence and Artistic Linework
The motif shows the head of an adult lion, whose mane has been modeled in fine gradations. The engraving combines soft curves with pronounced contours, creating a lifelike impression. Light glides across the sculpted hair structures and highlights the depth of the relief. The obverse bears the inscriptions SOUTH AFRICA and BIG FIVE 2022 as well as the South African coat of arms.
The reverse presents two halves of a lion’s head. Two adjacent coins merge into a complete portrait. Several pieces create the appearance of a lion pride, forming an impressive collection composition. This concept expresses the bond within the animal family and lends the series a striking visual character.
Historical and Cultural Background
The Lion as a Symbol of Strength and Cultural Heritage
For centuries, the African lion has been regarded as an emblem of power and dignity. In many cultures, it was described as the king of beasts. Its roar carries for several kilometers and serves as communication within the pride. In South African cultural heritage, the lion holds a prominent role and continues to shape coats of arms and emblems today.
The Big Five series honors this tradition and highlights the animals that are considered ambassadors of a biodiverse continent. With the second series, the South African Mint continues this legacy and gives collectors and investors a worthy pathway into African history.
Exclusivity and Investment Value
Limited Rarity for Long-Term Stability
A mintage of only 500 pieces worldwide creates exceptional scarcity. This small number drives strong demand among collectors who seek strictly limited issues. Platinum holds a strong market position, as the metal is valued both industrially and as an investment asset. The face value of 20 Rand completes the official recognition by the South African Mint.
Rare collector coins combine material value with historical significance. Thanks to the iconic motif and proof quality, the issue gains additional appeal as a platinum investment coin. Secure one of the few pieces of this strictly limited coin before it is sold out.
Special Features
Weight, Feel, and the Tangible Presence of Platinum
Platinum possesses a distinctive feel characterized by high density and a pleasantly cool touch. One ounce of this metal conveys a noticeable sense of solidity. The surface appears smooth and clear, making the engraving particularly vivid. With every lift of the coin, this experience is renewed and confirms the value of the precious metal.
Collectors benefit from potentially robust value development, as platinum is mined far less frequently than gold. The combination of limited mintage and material value creates an attractive balance between collectors’ ambition and investment focus.
What Makes This Coin Special?
This coin combines extremely rare platinum minting with a modular design concept that expands into a complete lion portrait, making it a distinctive highlight within the Big Five II series.
Storage
At Superior Coins, your coin collection is especially dear to us. That’s why we developed our Superior Boxes with a unique, multifunctional inlay tailored perfectly to your needs. You can choose to store the inlay safely and space-efficiently in our compact Security Box, ideal for safe-deposit lockers, or place it in one of our elegantly designed presentation boxes.
This way, your collection remains protected in your private safe while allowing you to enjoy the beautiful display of your valuable pieces at any time with style and pride.
Discover the variety of our high-quality boxes and experience how presentation and security come together perfectly at Superior Coins.
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