Unexpected Hunting: From Orangutan to Javanese Tiger

Who would have thought that a quest for a Sumatran orangutan medal would lead me to an unexpected treasure?

Honestly, my original intention was not to buy this Javanese Tiger medal but to acquire the Sumatran orangutan medal that had just launched. However, destiny had other plans. I came across an offer I simply couldn't refuse—a seller was offering the Javanese Tiger medal, complete with a box and Certificate of Authenticity (CoA), at a lower price than other sellers were asking. I knew I had to seize this opportunity, and suddenly, I found myself taking home this stunning piece from Bullionspot.

This Javanese Tiger medal, produced in February 2024, is the second release in Bullionspot's Wildlife Series. It is the first Bullionspot silver medal that I own, and what a start it is!

Weighing in at 1 oz (31.1 grams) of 99.9% fine silver with a proof finish, this medal features the image of a Javanese tiger, a subspecies declared extinct in the 1980s. From the moment I laid eyes on it, I was captivated. The intricate details of the tiger carving transported me back to a time when these magnificent creatures roamed freely across the lush landscapes of Java Island.

The proof finish lends the piece a luxurious and timeless quality, making it feel less like a medal and more like a miniature masterpiece. Each glance at it feels like beholding a remarkable work of art.

The magic behind this stunning design is the craftsmanship of Indonesia’s master engraver, Mr. Mujirun. A renowned artist, Mr. Mujirun began his career at Peruri (Perusahaan Umum Percetakan Uang Republik Indonesia, is the state-owned corporation responsible for printing and minting the currency of Indonesia) in 1979 and spent over three decades shaping the visual identity of Indonesian currency.

His work includes notable contributions to the Rp 5,000 note in 1991, the Rp 1,000 note in 1987, and the Rp 50,000 note in 1995. Known for his intricate engravings that capture the faces of leaders, heroes, and natural landscapes, Mr. Mujirun retired in 2009, leaving behind a legacy that includes this beautiful Javanese Tiger medal. His ability to bring the Javanese tiger to life with astonishing detail and emotion is evident, capturing not just an image but a story of power and grace.

What makes this 38 mm diameter medal even more extraordinary is its rarity. With only 400 pieces in existence worldwide, this isn't just a piece of silver; it's a highly exclusive work of art. Owning one of these 400 pieces feels like holding a piece of history, a tribute to an animal that once symbolized the wild spirit of Java.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this medal represents a unique investment opportunity. With the growing interest in precious metals in Indonesia, particularly silver, I see a promising future for Bullionspot's medals. I plan to keep an eye on their upcoming series and perhaps even start a small collection of my own. The potential for appreciation in value is high, given the limited availability and the increasing demand.

The Javan tiger (Panthera tigris sondaica), a subspecies declared extinct around the 1980s, may no longer walk the forests of Java, but its legacy endures. It lives on through art, such as this Bullionspot silver medal and the 1974 Rp 2000 commemorative coin . These pieces are more than just beautiful objects; they are a poignant reminder of the need to preserve our natural heritage and appreciate the cultural treasures of Indonesia.

So, what other endangered animals do you think deserve to be immortalized on coins or medals? Share your thoughts and collections in the comments! Together, let's celebrate the beauty of nature and support efforts to conserve our environment.

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