5 of South Africa’s most unique and finest national treasures: South Africa is home to some of the world’s most fascinating and most costly coins. Ranging from coins minted during the Anglo-Boer War to scarce coins minted in small numbers that have become collector’s items, these scarce coins are a reflection of the nation’s heritage and history. Some of them are worth millions, and they truly are national treasures. If you just so happen to own one of these rare coins, chances are, you may be sitting on a small fortune. In this piece, we explore five of the most valuable South African coins, the history surrounding them, their market value today, and how you can determine if you do indeed have one.
5 Rare and National Treasures of South Africa’s Coins
South Africa’s rare coins are not just collectibles; they are pieces of history. Investor or history enthusiast, owning one of the country’s national treasures can be financially and culturally rewarding. To learn more about South African coins, visit the South African Numismatic Society for details and expert counsel.
| Coin | Year | Notable Features | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single 9 Pond | 1898 | Unique ‘9’ punch marking; only 1 coin minted | R40 million+ ($2.16 million) |
| Burgers Pond | 1874 | First official coin of the South African Republic | R1 million to R5 million, depending on condition |
| Veld Pond | 1902 | Hand-struck emergency currency during the Anglo-Boer War | R500,000 to R3 million |
| Sammy Marks Tickey | 1898 | Limited edition gold threepence coins gifted to officials | R250,000 to R1 million |
| Kruger Half Pond | 1892 | Features Paul Kruger; part of the first coin series of the Republic | R150,000 to R1 million |
Source: South African Numismatic Society
1. The 1898 Single 9 Pond – The Holy Grail of SA Coins
The Single 9 Pond is the most valuable and rarest South African coin ever minted. It was minted in 1899 by the South African Republic government to be used for financial independence from British rule. Even with limited funds, only a single coin was minted, with a punched ‘9’ over the original 1898 date.
Why it’s valuable:
- It’s a one-of-a-kind item with unmatched historical significance.
- Sold for over R40 million ($2.16 million) in 2023 at auction.
- Symbolizes South Africa’s struggle to achieve economic independence during the Anglo-Boer War.
Market Value Recent: The coin was sold at premium prices, and its value keeps on increasing with no other version being available.
2. The Burgers Pond – 1874 – A Historical Benchmark
The Burgers Pond, named after President Thomas François Burgers, was the first formal South African Republic coin minted in 1874. It features the likeness of Burgers and comes in two variations – the coarse beard and the fine beard, the fine beard version being rarer.
Why it’s valuable:
- It was the first step made by South Africa towards monetary autonomy.
- Few were hit before the project was halted following British opposition.
Current Value: A 1902 Veld Pond can fetch between R1 million and R5 million depending on its condition and is a collector’s gem.
3. The 1902 Veld Pond – Coin of Resilience
Struck during the final years of the Anglo-Boer War, the Veld Pond was an emergency coinage which was struck in the field by Boer forces in 1902. The coins were hand-struck in challenging conditions, and they exhibit a coarse and rudimentary design.
Why it’s valuable:
- Symbolizes the resourcefulness and resolve of Boer forces.
- Only 986 were struck, so they are exceptionally rare.
Market Trends: Due to its scarcity and historical significance, the Veld Pond can sell for R500,000 to R3 million depending on condition and provenance.
4. The 1898 Sammy Marks Tickey – A Historical Tribute
The Sammy Marks Tickey, a gold threepence coin, was minted in 1898 as a tribute to industrialist Sammy Marks. President Paul Kruger had granted him permission to mint a small number of coins. Just 215 were minted and given to special individuals.
Why it’s valuable:
- Very low mintage, hence rarity.
- Generally the victim of counterfeits due to its high value.
Collector’s Value: In the modern market, a real Sammy Marks Tickey can sell for anything between R250,000 to R1 million.
5. The 1892 Kruger Half Pond – A National Icon
The Kruger Half Pond, first struck in 1892, carries the portrait of President Paul Kruger and the country’s coat of arms. It is one of the very first official sets of gold coins struck by the South African Republic.
Why it’s valuable:
- Symbolizes the economic boom and gold rush of the era.
- Its variations such as the “Single Shaft” and “Double Shaft” designs make it stand out.
Market Prices: Priced anywhere from R150,000 to R1 million depending on rarity and condition, the Kruger Half Pond can command such fees.
How to Know If You Have One of These 5 South African Coins That Are Rare and National Treasures
If you suspect that you hold one of these rare South African coins, the following are steps to verify their authenticity and value:
- Verify the Date and Design:
- Check the coin for the correct year, lettering, and design features.
- Compare it to images from reputable sources.
- Verify the Condition:
- Mint and near-mint condition coins are more valuable.
- Examine for scratches, discoloration, or wear.
- Obtain Professional Appraisal:
- Obtain authentications from numismatic experts or reputable coin dealers.
- Organizations such as the South African Numismatic Society can assist.
- Consider Grading Services:
- Companies like NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) offer grading services that assess and certify coins.
Tips for Coin Collectors
If you’re interested in investing in rare South African coins, consider the following:
- Buy from Trusted Dealers: Always purchase coins from reputable dealers to avoid counterfeits.
- Keep Records: Maintain documentation of your coin’s origin and previous sales.
- Store Coins Safely: Keep them in protective cases to avoid environmental damage.
- Watch Market Trends: Stay updated with auctions and coin fairs to keep track of appreciation in value.
FAQ’s
Q. How do I sell my South African rare coin?
A. You can sell through serious auction houses, the internet, or certified coin dealers who deal in rare coins.
Q. Where can I have my coin authenticated?
A. Organisations like the South African Numismatic Society provide authentication facilities.
Q. Are all Kruger coins valuable?
A. Not all Kruger coins are valuable; early strikes and special issues only fetch lots of money.
Q. How are valuable coins to be stored?
A. Keep them in acid-free capsules in a cool, dry location to prevent tarnishing.
Q. Are rare South African coins a good investment?
A. Yes, they have always increased in value, especially rare and well-preserved ones.