In 1997 to celebrate the Buffalo, the South African Mint released a special Limited Issue Natura Buffalo Gold Proof Coin struck in solid Fine 999.9 Gold weighing one-quarter of an ounce of pure Gold and is part of the Natura Big 5 series.
The obverse design of the Buffalo Gold Proof Coin depicts the full frontal view of the Buffalo while the reverse design shows the Buffalo defending itself against an attacking lion.
These legal tender coins have been struck to proof quality using specially prepared dies and highly polished blanks.