Burkina Faso 6000 francs Oxpecker Bird Rhinoceros Four Africa Fantasy coin 2003

The Burkina Faso 6000 Francs fantasy coin of 2003 is an unusual and visually engaging piece inspired by African wildlife and symbolism, known as the Four Africa theme. Issued for Burkina Faso with a face value of 6000 francs CFA, this bimetallic-style fantasy issue highlights the close relationship between animals and the African continent, combining fauna imagery with a map-based design concept.

One side features a detailed scene of an oxpecker bird perched on the back of a rhinoceros. The bird’s slender body, beak, wings, and tail feathers are carefully engraved, while the rhinoceros is shown with a strong head profile, prominent horn, thick skin folds, and muscular form. This pairing symbolizes symbiosis in African wildlife, where the oxpecker feeds on parasites found on large mammals. Surrounding the central image are inscriptions including Burkina Faso, Afrique de l’Ouest, UEMOA, Emission, and the year 2003, arranged along the outer ring.

The opposite side displays an elephant’s head seen from the front, with large ears, long trunk, tusks, and textured skin. Behind the elephant is a stylized map of Africa, emphasizing continental unity. Below appears the inscription 4 Africa. The outer ring continues the institutional inscriptions of West African economic and monetary entities, reinforcing the regional theme.

As a fantasy issue, this coin was produced outside regular circulating coinage but remains popular among collectors for its bold wildlife imagery, African symbolism, and distinctive bimetallic appearance. It is a compelling addition to collections focused on fauna, Africa-themed coins, and unusual numismatic designs.

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