Germania Mint’s two-ounce coloured cast bar program has been a hit, there’s little doubt of that, but the popularity is built on the back of quality imagery, and the range of producers now taking part has meant that remains at a high standard. However, like in some coin formats, there’s a heavy leaning on the world of myths and legends for inspiration.

That’s quite a popular theme, of course, and one replete with potent imagery, but variety is the spice of life, as the old saying goes, and we’re glad that nature is getting its turn in the spotlight with the Royal Kraków Mint’s Big Five Africa range. The first bar depicted the Lion, a magnificent apex predator that needs no introduction, and this second bar features the herbivorous, but no less dangerous, African Elephant.

As we’ve repeatedly said, these bars live or die on their artwork, and we think this one has no issues on that front. The elephant image is first class, depicting what we’d imagine is a bull. The savanna is represented by the iconic Baobob tree in the background. The bar’s title, picked out in a single colour, and filled with a tribal-style pattern, strikes a perfect contrast to the monochrome animal.

The bar comes boxed with a serialised Certificate of Authenticity enclosed within. That serial number is also engraved on the back of the bar, and just 500 of these will be cast. A terrific addition to this five-bar range, it should be available to order now. The Rhinoceros, Buffalo and Leopard have yet to join the range. Don’t forget to check out our full Bullion Profile to this whole programme.