Somalia 5 oz Silver Elephant 2017

The 2017 Somalia 5 Ounce Silver Elephant coin is an impressive bullion and collectible issue, part of the renowned African Wildlife Series produced by the Somali Republic. This series has garnered international acclaim for its combination of high-quality silver, intricate design, and wildlife-themed artistry. Struck in five troy ounces of .999 fine silver, the 2017 Elephant coin is both a substantial investment in precious metals and a visually stunning collector’s piece. Its large size allows for exceptional detail in both the obverse and reverse designs, making it an outstanding example of modern bullion artistry from Africa.

The obverse of the coin features a finely engraved effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, reflecting Somalia’s use of her portrait on legal tender coins. The portrait presents the Queen in profile, facing right, with intricate detailing in her hair, facial features, and attire. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” the country name “SOMALIA,” the denomination of “5 SHILLINGS,” and the year of issue, “2017.” This side serves as the legal tender face of the coin and demonstrates precision in minting and engraving, with crisp relief and sharp edges preserved even on a larger 5-ounce coin.

The reverse design showcases a detailed depiction of an African elephant, the centerpiece of the African Wildlife Series. The elephant is rendered in high relief, standing majestically against a savanna landscape with acacia trees and distant hills, capturing the grandeur and presence of this iconic animal. The intricate textures of the elephant’s skin, tusks, and trunk are highlighted, demonstrating the Mint’s exceptional artistry and attention to detail. The reverse also includes inscriptions of the silver content, “5 OZ AG 999,” and the face value, providing both bullion information and numismatic authenticity.

Struck in five troy ounces of .999 pure silver, the coin measures approximately 65 millimeters in diameter, giving it a substantial and impressive physical presence. The large diameter allows for enhanced detail in the artwork, making the elephant appear lifelike and dynamic. The coin is typically produced with a proof-like finish, featuring polished fields and frosted relief on the elephant and inscriptions, emphasizing contrast and clarity. This combination of size, weight, and fine finish ensures the coin is both visually striking and a substantial addition to any collection.

The 2017 Somalia 5 Ounce Silver Elephant coin is part of an ongoing series that celebrates Africa’s rich wildlife heritage, promoting awareness and appreciation of endangered species. The elephant, as one of Africa’s most iconic animals, symbolizes strength, wisdom, and longevity, while the coin serves as both a collector’s item and a tangible investment in precious metals. Its issuance by the Somali Republic adds to its international appeal, providing collectors with a legally recognized coin featuring significant artistic and environmental themes.

Technically, the coin is struck using high-quality minting processes, ensuring sharp relief, precise inscriptions, and detailed textures. The proof-like finish enhances the depth and contrast of the elephant design, while polished fields create a mirror-like background that accentuates the raised elements. The large planchet and thick silver content also allow for a durable strike, preserving detail over time. Coins of this size and purity are ideal for display, study, or secure storage.

Numismatically, the 2017 Somalia 5 Ounce Silver Elephant coin is highly sought after by collectors of wildlife-themed bullion, modern silver coins, and African issues. Its combination of substantial silver content, intricate design, and limited annual mintage enhances its appeal. Collectors value the coin not only for its bullion weight but also for its artistry and thematic significance, making it a cornerstone for both investment and display purposes.

Collecting the 2017 Somalia 5 Ounce Silver Elephant provides both tangible investment value and aesthetic enjoyment. The obverse portrait of Queen Elizabeth II establishes the coin’s authenticity and legal tender status, while the reverse elephant design offers visual appeal and environmental symbolism. The large size, high relief, and proof-like finish allow collectors to appreciate every detail, from the elephant’s textured skin to the surrounding savanna landscape, combining artistic excellence with numismatic importance.

Overall, the 2017 Somalia 5 Ounce Silver Elephant coin is a prestigious and visually striking bullion issue. Its 5-ounce weight in .999 pure silver, detailed design, and proof-like finish make it an exceptional collectible and investment-grade coin. Celebrating Africa’s iconic wildlife and produced with meticulous craftsmanship, this coin appeals to collectors of silver bullion, wildlife-themed numismatics, and international coinage. It represents both intrinsic value and artistic merit, making it a standout piece in any modern silver collection.