It is a fundamental belief in Buddhism that every person is born under the blessing and protection of a certain Bodhisattva or Buddha. The Eight Protectors are each associated with a specific Zodiac animal and bless all who are born in the year of that particular Zodiac. They are also perceived as guardians of the cardinal and semi-cardinal directions. This connection between the twelve zodiac signs and the Eight Protectors is thought to be in alignment to Taoist influence and Chinese cosmology, whereby pious worshipping of the Protectors is believed to bless one with a peaceful life by elimination of calamities.
The Mahasthamaprapta is one of the bodhisattva mahāsattva. Mahasthamaprapta represents wisdom and its power. His name means “arrival of the great strength”. Many cultures view wisdom as the most important virtue, and much power is associated with the possession of this trait. He is present in Lotus Sutra as well, as one of the 80,000 bodhisattva mahasattvas that assemble on Mount Grdfhrakuta to hear the teachings of the Wonderful Dharma of the Lotus Flower Sutra. This is one of the most well-known connections with Mahasthamaprapta, and he continues to be tied to symbolism related to the preservation of the Lotus Sutra and its value to those seeking wisdom and strength.
Inspired by Buddhist stone carvings, the collectible features Mahasthamaprapta seated serenely and accompanied by elements of the lotus flower which symbolizes perfection. The lotus flower blooming in his left hand is chosen to mark how he has attained complete realisation and enlightenment. It also signifies the total removal of all undesirable thoughts and worldly troubles. This image of Mahasthamaprapta is majestic and powerful, to mirror his stature. The buddha also symbolizes blessings in wealth and empowers those born in the Year of the Horse with smooth sailing careers and financial breakthroughs. On the obverse, the eight protectors and guardians of the Chinese zodiacs sit in heart-shaped Bodhi leaves surrounding the twelve zodiacs animals they protect, forming a lotus flower in full bloom. The collectible is crafted in the shape of the Taoist Bagua to attract good luck and ward off evil. In the middle lies the yin-yang symbol of harmony and balance behind the official legal tender of Tchad, the Coat of Arms du Tchad.
A new minting technique called “Bi-Metal Max” was applied to give this piece its remarkable weight and 120mm diameter – triple the size of the regular 2 oz collectible. This is made possible by combining 28.5 oz of Copper as a base with a top layer of 5 oz of 999 pure Silver, resulting in a super ultra-high relief topped with silver antiqued finishing. This is a limited edition of 199 pieces only. Each piece is packaged and delivered with a Certificate verifying its edition number and authenticity.
| Metal | Silver , Copper |
| Weight | 5 oz (銀) , 28.5 oz (銅) |
| purity | 999 |
| Face Value | 25000 Francs CFA |
| Year | 2023 |
| Technology | 超高浮雕 |
| Quality | Antique |
| Issuing Country | Tchad |
| Mintage (pcs) | 199 |
| Sizes (mm) | 120 mm |