Submitting Organziation Name and role, if any, in the Project
South African Reserve Bank
Coin Denomination/s and Date of Issue
Coin Issuer’s Organization Name
Project Description
The South African Reserve Bank produce coins of various denominations through its subsidiary, the South African Mint Company. The previous coin series was introduced in 1989, with an upgrade in 2004 when the R5 coin was modified into a bi-metal design featuring a nickel outer rim and a bronze inner core. The entire coin series remained in circulation for approximately 34 years, which meant it was becoming outdated in technology.
The project aimed to develop a new circulation coin series for South Africa named the Fourth Decimal Coin Series.This upgrade included the incorporation of modern security features and technologies.
The project aimed to achieve the following objectives:
- Leverage advancements in design and manufacturing technology.
- Ensure that the design and denominations remain relevant in a continually evolving democracy.
- Explore the use of more cost-effective materials.
- Enhance efficiencies in the manufacturing processes.
- Consider the incorporation of the latest security features.
- Examine the plating thickness of 40 microns on certain coins to potentially reduce it according to international standards for circulating coins, with the goal of lowering material and production costs while maintaining the coins’ durability.
The project was initiated in 2019 and successfully navigated the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Project Team
Legal Tender/Continuous Circulation/Face Value Confirmation
Innovation and Uniqueness of Design
The series of highlights the country’s uniqueness, creativity, and cultural diversity. With an overarching theme of ’deep ecology’, which emphasises the interdependence between human and non-human existence. Features integrated on the coins include South Africa’s national symbols, such as the national flag, coat of arms, all eleven official languages; and additional security features on the R5 coin, namely a latent image which interchanges between the word ”FIVE” and “RAND”, and the words “South African Reserve Bank” as micro lettering on an inclined surface adjacent to the landing.
The series was issued with the upgraded banknote series, allowing South Africa’s currency to develop jointly. R2 and R1 serrations have been enhanced to support the visually impaired community, mimicking the tactile marks on the banknotes by allowing gaps between serrations for authentication. A bespoke typeface was designed for the currency. All banknotes, R5 and R2 coins feature adult mammals with their offspring.
Integration of historical or local content that is relevant to the country concerned
The series celebrates South Africa’s (SA) heritage and culture, featuring national symbols like the coat of arms, flag, king protea, springbok, galjoen, and all eleven official languages with a unique ZAR typeface for SARB.
The designs created by South African artists depict endangered species and ecological aspects of various geographical areas of SA.
• R5- Southern right whale, with a school of galjoen, national fish. It migrates to the coastal waters of SA in winter.
• R2 – Springbok, national animal, also a nickmane of the national rugby team. With its calf,embodies the essence of family and inclusivity.
• R1 – King Protea, national flower. Symbolises SA’s beauty and an emblem of national sports teams, such as cricket and netball.
• 50c – Knysna Turaco- native to southern and eastern SA’s forests.
• 20c: Bitter Aloe – Used for its medicinal properties in SA.
• 10c: Cape Honeybee – native to SA, are essential for crop pollination and the agricultural economy.
Effectiveness of integration of security features into the coin
The R5 is a bi-metallic coin, resulting in two colours. The Southern Right Whale is shown in its habitat. The ocean’s wavelike fluid quality is modelled into the background beneath the whale, creating a subtle variation in the face of the coin.
When tilted on either side, the latent image’s dynamic effect reflects the words “Five” and “Rand,” allowing the public to interact more with the coin.
The R5 incorporates the words “South African Reserve Bank “as micro lettering on an inclined surface adjacent to the landing.
Serrations were made more distinct between high and low denominations by integrating gaps between the serrations of the R2 and R1 coins. This makes it easier for the visually impaired community to authenticate the coins. These serrations also correspond with the tactical features of the banknote series.
Aesthetic appeal and overall design of the coin or coin series
The series celebrates South Africa’s culture and heritage through national symbols and representation of all 11 official languages that rotate over a ten-year period, accentuating their significance and inclusivity. The neutral and timeless designs on the coins depict organisms that any South African may connect with, emphasising the interdependence of human and nonhuman life within its environment. The excellent design composition and craftsmanship have received positive public feedback.
Lesetja Kganyago, SARB Governor, stated, “The money that we feel in our hands and hear clink in our pockets is the most tangible way in which the SARB touches the lives of South Africans. For the SARB, as the producer and custodian of our nation’s currency, today is not only about reinforcing trust in that currency through enhanced security features. It is also about celebrating our country’s shared heritage, people, and culture, which are beautifully reflected in the new designs.”
