This very special animal deserves an outstanding commemoration. The World's first bi-metal coin composed of multi-shaped Niobium Metal and Sterling Silver. Mongolia maintains very high standards of protection of their rare and endangered animals and plants. One of the most protected animals is the Snow Leopard of the western Altai Mountains. This animal was heavily hunted since shepherds, who care for their live-stock grazing in Summer time in the higher Mountain regions. Further, Snow Leopard bones are in great demand in traditional Chinese Medicine. Nomads and Shepherds use the thick fur to make winter clothing. His tail, at 4 and a quarter feet long, is almost as long as the animal's body and is important for balance when jumping down the steep rocks. He is an excellent climber and night hunter, his prey are mountain goats, snow rabbits, marmots and other animals living in the mountainous area. His natural enemies are wolves and both wolf packs and snow leopards compete for the same prey. Both males and females mark rocks in their territory. During mating season the female "calls and seeks" the male. After 100 days she gives birth of 1 or 2 cubs. In Mongolia approximately 700 Snow Leopards have been counted. The World Wildlife Fund estimates the worldwide population to be between 4000 and 5500 animals only. Comes in a hand-rubbed wood presentation case with a Certificate of Authenticity.