2005 - The African Vultures, Birds of Prey Series

(R2 silver crown size and 2½ cent sterling silver proof coins)

The 2½c Tickey and R2 Crown silver coins were first introduced as collector's coin in 1997. “South Africa's Marine Life” featured on these legal tender coins from 1997 to 2002. In 2003 a new theme, “South Africa's Birds of Prey”, commenced. The “African Eagles” were the first to be depicted, followed in 2004 by the “African Owls”. The “African Vultures” chosen for 2005, are represented by the Cape Griffon and the Bearded Vulture.

The Cape Griffon, which is depicted on the R2 coin, is endemic to southern Africa. Its scientific name Gyps coprotheres, is derived from Greek and is based on the earlier belief that vultures fed mainly on dung. Unlike the Cape Griffon, the Bearded Vulture which features on the 2½c coin, does not look like a typical vulture. Its scientific name Gypaetus barbatus, is derived from Greek and emphasizes its beard and unique appearance. 

 In their natural habitat these vultures have evolved to perform the vital role of consuming animal remains that might otherwise spread disease. Their unique characteristics enable them to survive in the wild, but make them vulnerable to changes in their environment. Africa's vultures have not escaped the dramatic effects of a changing landscape as the human population expands and wildlife areas diminish. The continuous destruction of their natural habitat and the many fatal hazards which accompany human development threaten their survival. In South Africa conservation efforts and educational campaigns have resulted in a high degree of awareness and understanding of vultures and a concerted effort to make the human environment more “vulture friendly”.

 

ARTIST
L Guerra, artist at the South African Mint designed the reverse of the R2 - Crown sterling silver and 2½ c - Tickey sterling silver

ENGRAVERS
The obverse design for the R2 sterling silver coin was engraved by the South African Mint’s former chief die-engraver, Arthur Sutherland and obverse design for the 2 ½ c tickey sterling silver coin was engraved by K Gray. South African Mint resident die-engravers, C Moses engraved the R2 sterling silver coin reverse design and the 2 ½ c tickey sterling silver coin reverse design