Gabon 2014 1000 Franks Golden Enigma Edition 2014 - Springbok BU Silver Coin

This breathtaking black coin is the third issue of the Golden Enigma Edition and features the African Springbok in gold and all filigree details. Struck from 1 oz silver .999, the coin is a unique combination of black and gold: it’s completely plated with ruthenium and partly with 24K gold! The worldwide mintage is limited to 5 000 pieces.

The obverse features the coat of arms of the Gabonese Republic used by the country since 15 July 1963. The emblem combines the symbols of the president’s vigilance and courage, the country’s mineral wealth and its movement towards a brighter future. There are also two mottos on the coat of arms: 'Union, Work, Justice' in French and 'We shall go forward united' in Latin.

The reverse features a relief African Springbok, a small brown and white gazelle easily recognized by its striking body color. Springboks inhabit dry river beds and short grass savannah of the central and western parts of South Africa. Unfortunately, their numbers have greatly declined within the last 100 years. To achieve the unusual black surface of the coin, it was coated with silver-gray ruthenium, one of the platinum metals that looks like platinum but is rarer. Housed in a black luxury box, the Golden Enigma Springbok coin is a desirable collector’s item!