The South African Big Five coins are a series of bullion issues by the South African Mint under the authority of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). This ongoing program, established in 2019, honors five of South Africa’s most iconic and culturally significant wild animals: the elephant, lion, rhinoceros, buffalo, and leopard.
These South African coins are known for their striking split-face reverse design—two mirrored halves of the animal’s face that align to form a full image when paired.
Issued in gold and silver, as well as platinum, the Big Five Coins are widely collected for their artistic craftsmanship, limited mintages, and connection to wildlife conservation.
The Big Five and South African Identity
In South African culture and conservation, the Big Five refers to the elephant, lion, rhinoceros, buffalo, and leopard—five animals named as the most difficult to hunt on foot. Today, they symbolize the nation’s rich biodiversity and are central to South Africa’s tourism and ecological heritage.
The Big Five Coin Series captures these themes through powerful animal portraits and symbolic design, blending collectability with purpose.
What Are the Animals on the Big Five Coins?
Elephant
The elephant symbolizes strength, wisdom, and memory. As the largest land animal, it plays a key role in the ecosystem and South African culture. Elephants are family-focused, emotionally intelligent, and revered across many cultures.
Lion
The lion represents courage, leadership, and royalty. As a dominant predator and the only social big cat, the lion is often associated with family structure, hierarchy, and protection.
Rhinoceros
The rhinoceros stands for endurance, defense, and conservation. Its iconic horn has made it a target for poaching, positioning it as a key symbol in anti-poaching efforts and preservation initiatives.
Buffalo
The Cape buffalo is symbolic for resilience and communal strength. Known for its formidable size and protective herd behavior, the buffalo reflects determination and unity.
Leopard
The leopard embodies stealth, agility, and precision. As an elusive, solitary hunter, it represents independence and adaptability in nature.
The South Africa Big Five Coins
The Big Five coins offer a bold statement regarding wildlife reverence, national pride, and modern numismatic design. With each release, the series captures a new layer of visual storytelling,
For collectors, the Big Five series deliver:
- Limited mintages and strong secondary market appeal
- Artistic consistency across evolving designs
- A connection to conservation efforts and heritage
Big Five Series I (2019–2021)
The 2019 Elephant marked the debut of the Big Five Coin Series, which includes ongoing releases in gold, silver, and platinum, such as the Platinum Elephant coin.
2019 – Elephant
- Obverse: Elephant facing left, with partial body visible and trunk raised.
- Reverse: Mirrored halves of the elephant’s face that align to form a complete image.
2019 – Lion
- Obverse: Lion facing left, mane flowing and standing in profile.
- Reverse: Traditional split-face design.
- The lion emphasized royalty and family leadership.
2020 – Rhinoceros
- Obverse: Rhinoceros facing left, with horn prominently featured.
- Reverse: Split rhino face forming a full portrait when paired.
- This coin drew attention to poaching and conservation.
2020 – Leopard
- Obverse: Leopard facing left, in a poised stance with spotted coat.
- Reverse: Signature mirrored face design.
- A tribute to stealth and independence.
2021 – Buffalo
- Obverse: Buffalo facing left, showing its curled horns in profile.
- Reverse: Two mirrored halves that form the buffalo’s face.
- Completed Series I with a focus on herd strength.
Big Five Series II (2021–2023)
The second series of the South African Big Five coins featured the same animals as the first series, like the 2023 Silver Buffalo, with some minor changes to the obverse designs.
Big Five Series III (2024–Present)
The third series of Big Five coins from South Africa is currently underway. This series will feature the same animals as the first two series with other subtle changes. So far, the third series issued two coins, including the 2025 Big Five Gold Elephant and Lion. The Big Five Rhinoceros, Leopard, and Buffalo are expected to be released later in 2025.
Whether building a full set by year or focusing on your favorite animal, these coins are a standout in global numismatics—and a proud tribute to South Africa’s wild legacy.
