Few modern coins have seen such a rapid rise in recognition as the Somalian Elephant Coin struck by the Bavarian State Mint. Originally issued in 2004 as a silver coin, the program later expanded into gold, becoming one of the most diverse and collectible issues in the African Wildlife Series. The Somalian Gold Elephant quickly built a strong reputation with both investors and collectors due to its exceptional purity, detailed artistry, and multiple formats.
At DEIGOLDANDSILVERCOINS, we actively purchase Somalian Gold Elephant coins from private sellers. Our evaluations are transparent, based on current market value, and include a free verbal appraisal.
The Somalian Elephant is a distinctive part of the African Wildlife Series. Despite the series name suggesting multiple animals, the elephant is the sole subject featured. Adding to its history, the design first appeared on coins issued for Zambia in 1999, before the series transitioned to Somalia in 2004.
From 1999 to 2003, the Bavarian State Mint struck elephant-themed coins under Zambia’s name. In 2004, the nation of issue changed to Somalia, and the silver Somalian Elephant debuted with limited mintages that fueled strong demand.
The gold version followed the silver release, catering to collectors and gold bullion enthusiasts. Early mintages from 2004 to 2008 were capped at just 5,000 pieces annually, making them scarce in the marketplace.
Produced in both bullion and proof finishes, the Somalian Gold Elephant is available in standard and fractional weights. The program also expanded to include silver coins with 24-karat gold-gilded reverse designs, adding further appeal to collectors.
The 1 oz Somalian Gold Elephant remains the most recognized version, offered in both bullion and proof strikes. Proof issues are available in unique fractional weights such as 1/50 oz and 1/20 oz, as well as large-format pieces like the 5 oz gold proof, limited to just 99 coins annually.
Gilded Somalian Elephants are struck from .999 pure silver with the design plated in 24-karat gold. These were issued in select years, most notably from 2013 to 2015. All gold versions carry the same annual reverse design as their silver counterparts, paired with the consistent obverse imagery of Somalia’s coat of arms.
The Somalian Gold Elephant coin captivates collectors with its annually changing reverse design. Since 2004, the Bavarian State Mint has introduced a new African elephant motif each year, always depicting the elephant in its natural African habitat, but never repeating the exact design.
For example, the 2020 coins feature two adult African bush elephants facing each other, with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.
Common to all reverse designs are engravings inside the coin’s inner circle, including “Elephant,” “African Wildlife,” and details of the coin’s weight, metal content, and purity.
The obverse of every coin in the series, regardless of bullion or proof status, metal type, or size, displays Somalia’s coat of arms. This includes two leopards supporting a shield with a single star on a lined background, “Somali Republic” above, the minting year split on either side, and the coin’s face value below.
Though Somalian Gold Elephants bear a face value in Somali Shillings, their legal tender status remains debated.
The Bavarian State Mint strikes these coins with .999 fine gold and precise weight specifications. A 1-oz Somalian Gold Elephant contains exactly 1 troy ounce of gold and measures 1.6 inches in diameter.
Although these coins carry a Somali Shilling face value, their legal tender status has been subject to dispute due to political instability in Somalia. Regardless, they remain recognized worldwide for their craftsmanship, purity, and collectible appeal.
Due to their limited mintages, unique changing designs, and high global demand, Somalian Gold Elephant coins hold strong value in the secondary market. At DEIGOLDANDSILVERCOINS, we purchase 1 oz bullion and proof coins, fractional gold weights, gilded issues, certified graded examples, and raw coins. We offer free verbal appraisals, provide same-day competitive offers based on current gold prices, and ensure secure, professional handling of every transaction.
At DEIGOLDANDSILVERCOINS, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We invite you to read our testimonials and share your feedback. Contact us via phone, email, or visit our store to sell your Somalian Gold Elephant coins with confidence and ease.
DEIGoldAndSilverCoins offers over 50 years of trusted expertise in buying, selling, and appraising gold and silver coins in Las Vegas. Backed by certifications from CAC, NGC, PCGS, GIA, and AGL, we ensure every transaction is secure, professional, and rewarding.
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