The 2½ c Tickey and R2 Crown silver coins were issued for the first time in 1997 as a collectors' coin series. “South Africa's Marine Life” featured on these proof quality coins from 1997 to 2002. In 2003 a new theme, “South Africa's Birds of Prey”, was chosen. The first birds of prey to be featured were the “African Eagles” followed in 2004 by the “African Owls”.
The largest and smallest southern African owls are depicted on these legal tender silver coins. The Verreaux's Eagle-Owl (Bubo lacteus) appears on the reverse of the crown size coin together with the denomination “R2”. The obverse of this coin features the South African coat of arms together with the date “2004” and the words “South Africa” written in all the official languages. The Pearlspotted Owlet (Glaucidium perlatum) is featured on the Tickey with the denomination “2½ c”. The classic Tickey protea design appears on the obverse of this coin together with the date “2004” and the words “South Africa”. Throughout history and across many cultures, people have regarded owls with fascination and awe. Few other creatures have so many different and contradictory beliefs about them. Owls have been both feared and venerated, despised and admired, considered wise and foolish, and associated with witchcraft and medicine, the weather, birth and death. This human perception of owls is portrayed through the contrast of realistic and stylised design elements. These two coins, the 2½ c Tickey and R2 Crown, are a tribute to these remarkable birds of prey that have been an integral part of human society for centuries.

All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of listings - if any information in this listing is incorrect Goldbull CC will not be held responsible. E&OE