5 Rare South African Coins That Are National Treasures – Check Your Collection!

There is a treasure of numerical history in South Africa, where some coins have become extremely valuable collector pieces. Some of these rare coins are valuable in millions, while others are used to their historical value. If you are a collector or just interested in South African money, there are five rare and valuable South African coins you need to find.

1898 Single 9 Pond

1898 Single 9 Pond is the rare and most famous coin in South Africa. It was built during the Anglo-Boer war when the wires (Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek) had trouble making currency. One of these coins was produced, making it a valuable residue.

Why Is It Valuable?

Only one was ever made—making it one of the rarest coins in the world.
It was created as an emergency measure when the Boer government couldn’t produce new coins.
It has significant historical importance, representing South Africa’s struggle for independence.
Estimated Value: Over R15 million ($1 million+ USD)

1892 Kruger Double Nine Overstamp

In 1892, Kruger Double Nine is also one of the extremely rare South African coins. The coin was first collided in 1892, but after the beginning of the second Anglo-Board War (1899–1902), in 1899, two “9” points were approved by Boer Government as an attempt to recreate coins.

Why Is It Valuable?

Very few were made, and most were melted down or lost.
The “99” overstamp makes it one of the most unique coin errors in history.
It is directly tied to South Africa’s colonial and war history.
Estimated Value: R1.5 million ($100,000+ USD)

1874 Burgers Pond

1874 Burger Pond is a vintage coin named after Thomas François Burger, the fourth president of the South African (ZAR) Republic. This is the first gold coin produced in South Africa, but the government rejected it, which is why it is so rare.

Why Is It Valuable?

Only a few hundred were minted, making them highly collectible.
It marks the beginning of South Africa’s gold coinage.
A special “proof version” exists, which is even rarer.
Estimated Value: Over R4 million ($250,000+ USD)

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1928 Gold Sovereign

The 1928 South African Gold Sovereign is among the most challenging gold coins to obtain in high-grade. It was minted at the Pretoria Mint in small quantities, hence it is a scarce coin among collectors.

Why Is It Valuable?

Low mintage numbers make it incredibly rare.
The coin was minted in 22-carat gold, increasing its intrinsic value.
It is highly sought after by both gold investors and coin collectors.
Estimated Value: R300,000 ($20,000+ USD)

1965 Mandela R5 Coin

The 2008 Nelson Mandela R5 Coin was released to celebrate the 90th birthday of Nelson Mandela. Although younger than the other coins on this list, certain versions of this R5 coin are very valuable, especially those with mint errors or graded as Proof coins.

Why Is It Valuable?

Commemorates one of South Africa’s most iconic leaders.
Special limited-edition proof versions sell for high prices.
Some error coins have been sold for large sums at auctions.
Estimated Value: R150,000+ ($10,000+ USD) for proof or rare versions.

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Final Thought

If you do have one of these scarce South African coins, you may be holding a fortune in national treasure! Whether it is the 1898 Single 9 Pond or the Burgers Pond, these coins commemorate major events in South African history and are worth a king’s ransom to collectors. If you believe that you own a rare coin, have it professionally graded and certified by a well-respected numismatic company.