Known as the King of the Animals throughout Asia, the tiger has no natural enemies but many admirers. Since time immemorial, people have marvelled at the tiger’s imposing appearance and natural beauty, which are accentuated by the fiery red crystals by Swarovski® that form the tiger’s eyes on the third coin in the Eyes of the World series. The colour symbolises strength and energy, yet for an animal of such power, the tiger is also known as a peaceful creature despite being ready to fight whenever the occasion arises.

In the cultural history of Asia, images of the tiger abound. Power and strength in all their forms are ascribed to the predator. In China, where the Year of the Tiger begins on 1 February 2022, the animal has always been an emblem of potency and bravery. In Hinduism, too, it plays a highly symbolic role, with the goddess Durga often portrayed astride a tiger.