The Natura Series
The South African Mint produces a series of "Natura" coins, starting in 1994, each of the four different sized coins bears a different attractive design based on the theme for that year. The first five years formed a series within the Natura series, known as the "Big Five".Fine Gold
The gold coins in the Natura series are struck in 24 carat gold, actually .9999, and are South Africa's first fine gold coins.Description
We can probably do no better than to quote the information on the certificate which accompanies the set:-1996 Natura
The elephant theme is based upon an amazing elephant bull called "Mandleve" (Shangan, an African language meaning "the one with the torn ear"), and his descendants.
He was easily identified by his torn ear and was well respected both by animals and humans alike, during his lifetime.
Mandleve died of natural causes in 1993 at the approximate age if 65, a few kilometres from Sabi Sabi River Lodge, Mpumulanga, South Africa. His tusks were intact and were each measured at an identical 2.715 metres and weighed 69 and 73.5 kilograms respectively. Heavier than any of the original "Magnificent Seven" elephants found in the Southern African region, Mandleve will always remain a legend in elephant folklore and a magnificent example of a truly great "Tusker".
This was evident just before his death when Mandleve was protected by at least six askaris (body guards) which was an indication of his status.Designs
The designs of all the Natura series are, in our opinion, very artistically created and engraved, with themes which may be bold or subtle, but which break away from more traditional coin designs, and with fine detailing and artistic expression more akin to historic medals or medallions.Technical Specifications
The following tables summarise the specifications of all the sizes.Artists and Diesinkers
Details Ounce Half Quarter Tenth A. L. Sutherland A. L. Sutherland A. L. Sutherland A. L. Sutherland B. Hartland S. Erasmus A. Minnie J. Steyn Complete Boxed Natura Gold Proof Sets
Date Description Mintage Elephant 5,000 Key to Table
Mintage: Most recent figures quoted in Krause.Prices & Availability
QuantityRateBuyCall to check availabilityPlease check our Standard Terms for Bullion Coins .
You may wish to use our Order Form UK
Order Form USA .Postage & Packing
UK Registered Post (Special Delivery) £9 per order
EU Insured Post £10 per order
USA Airmail $10, Insured Shipping $20
Canada Airmail $15, Insured Shipping via Fedex $60
Elephant on Obverse of 1996 Proof Natura Gold Coins
Natura Proof Sets
Reverse of 1996 Proof One Ounce Natura Gold Coin
1996 Natura Proof Gold Set in Box
Reverse of 1996 Proof Half Ounce Natura Gold Coin
Reverse of 1996 Proof Quarter Ounce Natura Gold Coin
Reverse of 1996 Proof Tenth Ounce Natura Gold Coin
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E-mail: Contact Us The URL for our main page is: taxfreegold.co.uk