5 rare South African coins to be worth in 2024: One worth over R20 million!

5 rare South African Coins to be worth in 2024: South Africa maintains a complex historical record that depicts itself throughout its monetary system. Rare and valuable coins features at the pinnacle of collection interests because they connect historical periods to present times through their scarcity combined with their historical meaning. The rare coinage of South Africa links its historical evolution to crucial events and key figures from the Anglo-Boer War to Paul Kruger and Nelson Mandela.

Throughout the 19th century, South Africa produced various precious coins alongside modern coins such as the Krugerrand that was issued in the 1960s. The coins’ main value exists through their precious gold composition, scarcity, and distinctive issuance conditions. Two distinct categories of coins exist within South African numismatics which include pieces struck during times of political crisis along with issues commemorating important leaders of the nation.

As demand for these coins has grown, their market value has skyrocketed. These coins have become a treasure trove for collectors interested in history and art.

5 rarest coins of South Africa and Their Prices

Coin Name	Year	Estimated Value	Notable Feature
Single 9 Pond	1898	R20 million	Only one coin produced.
Kruger Double Nine Ponds	1899	R1.5 million	Two small ‘9’s stamped over 1898.
Burgers Pond (Coarse Beard)	1874	R1 million	Rare ‘Coarse Beard’ design.
Sammy Marks Tickey	1898	R750,000	215 coins minted for industrialist Sammy Marks.
Mandela 90th Birthday Coin	2008	R150,000	Commemorates Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday.

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Stories of major coins

Single 9 Pound (1898)

The 1898 single 9 Pound is South Africa’s most valuable coin, currently worth around R20 million. It dates back to the Anglo-Boer War. When the Republic of South Africa (ZAR) tried to mint gold coins, the British took over the Pretoria Mint. They were forced to stamp an old die with a “9” to indicate 1899. However, the attempt was abandoned after only one coin was minted, making this coin extremely rare.

Kruger Double Nine Pound (1899)

The Kruger Double Nine Pound was minted in 1899, with two smaller ‘9’s over the year “1898”. The rarity of these coins and the association with Paul Kruger makes them extremely valuable. Their current value can range from R1.5 million to R4 million.

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Sammy Marks Tikkie (1898)

This coin was minted in 1898 to honour industrial leader Sammy Marks. Only 215 coins were made and these never entered circulation. Its current value is around R750,000 and its historical significance makes it even more special.

Mandela 90th Birthday Coin (2008)

More recently, this coin, released in 2008 to mark Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday, is also popular among collectors. It is worth around R150,000, but Mandela’s global legacy makes it even more valuable.