South African Mint Company (RF) (Pry) Ltd

5 Rand

9,5 g

26 mm

Bi-Metal Alloy

4 561 000 pcs

Obverse die-engraver: AL Sutherland. Obverse artist: not applicable Reverse die-engraver: MJ Scheepers. Reverse artist: L Guerra

South African Mint Company (RF) (Pry) Ltd

The obverse depicts the South African coat of arms and the words 'South Africa' written in all of the official languages of South Africa. The year the coin was issued in '2021' is also featured.

The shared reverse designs on the commemorative coin celebrate the history of the SARB through different coins which include, from left to right:

• the 1923 three pence (Tickey), which represents the currency issued during the period of the Union of South Africa;
  
• a 1961 R1 gold coin featuring the springbok, which represents the introduction of the rand as the official currency in the same year South Africa became a Republic. The springbok has featured on numerous coins and is especially recognised as the reverse design on the world-famous Krugerrand;
  
• the 1965 20c coin, which depicts the king protea, South Africa’s national flower. The coin featured is part of the second decimal coin series;
  
• the 1990 1c coin featuring two sparrows, which represents the third decimal coin series;
  
• the R5 coin minted in 2008 in honour of former President Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday, represents commemorative circulation coins issued over the years; and a 10c coin depicts the Cape Honey Bee and represents the future of the national currency
  

This 100-year timeline illustrated through the depiction of currency coins issued after the establishment of the South African Reserve Bank in 1921, the oldest reserve bank in Africa, also shows the development of the technology applied by the engravers and how the artistry of coin design and relief models developed over time. From hand engraved dies to digital models engraved into machine punches by CNC or laser engraving machines. The R5 coin showcases South African numismatic history and the history of the South African Reserve Bank.