In 2003 the South African Mint released a very special Limited Issue Prestige Natura Lion Gold Proof 4 Coin Set all struck in solid fine 999.9 Gold and includes the 1oz, 1/2oz, 1/4oz and 1/10oz coins and is the second in the series of the Wild Cats of Africa series.

Male Lions reach their prime at five years of age, at which point their life's purpose comes into play: to fight for territory and to procreate.
If a male is powerful enough on his own, or if he is part of a powerful coalition of males, as he reaches adulthood he will try to kill or expel the dominant male or males of an existing pride.

The prime years for males are short lived. At eight years of age they are already losing weight and mane hair and it is at this stage that the prideës patriarch will probably be ousted.

Most male lions retain dominance over a pride for only two years, while they live for about twelve. Females live for ten to fifteen years.
The reverse of the Natura coins feature a majestic male lion in the prime of his reign.

The obverse is a portrait of a dominant male and a dominant female. The coin with its classic features depicts the royalty of the African Lion.
These legal tender coins have been struck to proof quality using specially prepared dies and highly polished blanks.

• Limited Mintage Presentation of only 698 Worldwide
  
• Finished to South African Mint's Proof Quality in Solid Fine 999.9 Pure Gold
• Natura Prestige Gold Coin Set Celebrating the Lion
• South African Mint Boxed with Certificate of Authenticity