Soaring above the African savannah with eyes that can spot prey from three kilometres away, the martial eagle commands Africa’s skies as an undisputed ruler of the raptor world.
Now, this majestic apex predator is coming right into your home, as it has been immortalised in gold and silver by the South African Mint.
The Mint has launched the 2026 Martial Eagle, the second release in its acclaimed Odyssey of the Sky seven-coin series, honouring one of the continent’s most powerful birds of prey through world-class craftsmanship and design excellence.
Managing Director at the South African Mint, Richard Collocott, explained the significance of the series.
“The Odyssey of the Sky is more than a coin series; it is a celebration of Africa’s extraordinary birdlife and the artistry that brings these stories to life through world-class minting.
“With the Martial Eagle, we continue the journey, offering collectors another beautifully crafted chapter in a series that is fast becoming one of our most distinctive modern collections,” Collocott stated.
The collection is struck in 24-carat gold and fine silver and features designs inspired by the bird’s strength and character.
“Continuing the series’ distinctive visual identity, each coin incorporates a signature African pattern that symbolises the enduring connection between humanity and nature.
“With strictly limited mintages across the range, the 2026 Martial Eagle collection marks the next sought-after chapter in The Odyssey of the Sky,” the SA Mint explained in a statement.
A major highlight of the 2026 release is the inclusion of two highly exclusive coin sets.
These special editions pair an Odyssey of the Sky Martial Eagle coin with South Africa’s world-famous Krugerrand, marked by a uniquely minted martial eagle privy mark, “making them a distinctive addition to the series”.
“As The Odyssey of the Sky unfolds over seven annual releases, each coin tells the story of an extraordinary bird while reflecting the South African Mint’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation and design excellence,” the Mint said.
More information can be found on www.samint.co.za or the retail store on collectables@samint.co.za or 012 677 2460/2482. – SAnews.gov.za
