Christiaan Claus (South Africa)

Christiaan Claus (South Africa)

Released: 2017
Number Issued: 50
Painted by: Mary Jo Gross
Dimensions: 7

Story:
Christiaan is from Simon’s Town, South Africa. He is known for his big heart and his two helpers, Higgins and Lady. They are African penguins that Christiaan named after the famous South African rhinos of the same name. Higgins and Lady love to entertain the children when Christiaan is handing out candy to the townsfolk during their summer Christmas festival.

BACKSTORY: As you may or may not know, my family and I are on a 6 year journey around the world. Sometimes we strike upon a country or situation or what have you, that inspires a Santa. We got to spend 3 amazing months in South Africa this year and we came away for the experience with a whole new perspective on so many things. One of them was the rhino poaching and what happened to Lady and Higgens (google their story). So we decided to integrate them into our piece this year, along with our experience visiting the penguins in Simon's Town. And of course, we topped off the South Africa commemoration by naming him after one of the most famous South Africans, Christiaan Barnard. The first person to successfully transplant a human heart. And that happened on Dec 3, 1967. So we released Christiaan on the same date, 50 years later. If you wish to read about our South Africa experience (or just follow us online) and see our pictures with the penguins and Lady and Higgins, visit our travel blog.

Included:
He's brand new, in the original box with all the original accessories including his copper treated, laser engraved base and story chip.