2023 1 oz Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Silver Proof Coin – Rwandan Wildlife Series (.999 Fine Silver, 15th Anniversary)

Celebrate 15 Years of Wildlife Excellence with This Ultra-Limited Proof Silver Coin Honoring the Majestic Mountain Gorilla

Since 2008, the Rwandan Wildlife Series has captivated collectors with its unique annual releases celebrating Africa's diverse and iconic wildlife. Each issue in the series delivers stunning artistry, a commitment to quality, and strong collector appeal. Now in its 15th year, the series marks a milestone with a breathtaking tribute to one of the planet’s most noble and endangered species — the Mountain Gorilla.

Struck in 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver with a beautiful proof finish, this 2023 release is not only the 17th overall coin in the series but also a special anniversary edition marked with a commemorative privy mark. Produced by Germany’s prestigious Mayer Mint and backed by the Rwandan government, the coin is strictly limited to a mintage of just 1,000 pieces worldwide, making it a highly sought-after proof collectible.

Coin Highlights:

• Contains: 1 troy oz of .999 fine silver
• Finish: Proof — mirror-like fields with frosted design details
• Mintage: Limited to 1,000 coins worldwide
• Packaging: Comes encapsulated in a protective capsule with Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
• Legal Tender: 50 Francs (RWF), backed by the Republic of Rwanda
• Obverse: Displays the national emblem of Rwanda
• Reverse: Features a tranquil family of mountain gorillas, along with a commemorative 15th-anniversary privy mark and the outline of the African continent
• Minted by: Mayer Mint (Germany) in partnership with the Republic of Rwanda

The 15th Anniversary of an Award-Winning Series

The Rwandan Wildlife Series has been an international success since its debut in 2008. Each annual release showcases a different animal native to the African continent — from predators like the leopard and lion to lesser-known but equally fascinating species like the shoebill stork and bushbaby.

The 2023 Mountain Gorilla Proof Coin is a highlight of the series and an ode to the series' legacy. What sets this edition apart is the inclusion of a 15th-anniversary privy mark, acknowledging the long-standing impact and collectibility of the Rwandan Wildlife lineup. This design continues the series' tradition of combining exquisite detail with meaningful wildlife conservation themes.

A Deeply Symbolic Design

The reverse design is a moving tribute to the endangered mountain gorilla. Depicted here is a family of gorillas, resting together in the dense green forest — a rare and intimate look at one of nature’s most intelligent and gentle species. The artwork emphasizes connection, protection, and the harmony of nature, reflecting both the gorilla’s strength and its vulnerability in the face of habitat loss and poaching.

Above the primary design is a stylized map of the African continent, a hallmark of the series, as well as the special 15th-anniversary privy mark. Additional inscriptions include the year of issue, weight, metal purity, and denomination.

On the obverse, the national coat of arms of Rwanda is prominently displayed. The emblem features rich symbolic elements: a traditional basket, a coffee branch, sorghum, a cogwheel, and the sun — all framed within the Rwandan motto and the country’s commitment to peace and unity.

Exceptional Quality from Mayer Mint

Mayer Mint, one of Germany’s most respected private mints, is known globally for producing high-end collector coins for various world governments. With cutting-edge minting technology and artistic precision, Mayer Mint continues to push the boundaries of modern coin design.

For the 2023 Mountain Gorilla Proof, Mayer Mint applied advanced proof striking techniques, creating a dramatic contrast between the mirrored fields and the frosted design elements. The result is a collectible that’s as stunning as it is symbolic — a masterpiece in silver.