Big 5: The Lion - 2019 Uncirculated Cupro Nickel Coin

The Lion is the world’s second largest cat, with a male lion being able to reach 3.3 metres in length (which is not inclusive of his tail) and weigh up to 250 kg. Most safari sightings are of these big cats sleeping in the shade the Lion is more active at night when hunting for prey. 

When considering a safari holiday, the term ‘Big Five’ refers to some of Africa’s most popular animals.The phrase was originally coined to describe the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot but nowadays the term is used by most guides and tourists as a term to encapsulate the ‘must see’.  

The Big Five are a huge part of the African culture and the conservation of these incredible animals is of paramount importance. National parks, like Kruger, in South Africa, play an essential role providing a protective area for tourists to see the Big Five together but at the same time enabling conservation of natural habitats for these endangered species which will hopefully allow future generations to enjoy these magnificent animals.