Leopard Coin Collection at Hemelhuijs

WORDS Malibongwe Tyilo


Well-known as the go-to place for bespoke and artfully designed decor, it’s no wonder that SA Mint decided to launch their new gold collection at Cape Town’s Hemelhuijs.

SA Mint’s new Leopard Coin Collection is the debut coin set for their Nocturnal Hunters Collection (part of the Natura Series), which has been produced since 1994 to celebrate the country’s wildlife.

In celebration of the collection, Hemelhuijs’s chef Jacques Erasmus has created a special menu inspired by the coins, along with the colours, textures and indigenous produce of the Cederberg region, to which the Cape Leopard is endemic. The menu is available until mid-November 2014.

Hemilhuijs’ decor has been transformed to reflect all things Cape Leopard. The ‘Cabinet of Curiosities’ is filled with pieces from the Cederberg, including rock fragments, wild grasses, and of course, the coin itself.  Across the restaurant, indigenous plant life is reflected in the decor, whether through twigs and branches painted in gold, or in the artworks that hang on the walls.

The pièce de résistance however has to be Jacques’ sculpture of the Cape Leopard, a life-size installation completely covered in a striking mosaic made from burnt toast (yes, burnt toast!).

There is also currently an online auction running (until 6pm on 15 November 2014) for the first limited-edition (1oz) Gold Leopard Coin (001/300).

For more information and to view the collection, visit legacylive.co.za.