1 Cedi 7-sided, FAO

Historical Context: The 1979 Ghana 1 Cedi coin emerged during a pivotal year, marking Ghana's transition from military rule to the Third Republic under Hilla Limann. Issued amidst political change, this coin reflects Ghana's participation in the global 'Food for All' campaign by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). For a developing nation striving for self-sufficiency, the theme of food security was profoundly significant, underscoring national development and international cooperation.

Artistry: The design of this 7-sided aluminium bronze coin embodies the functional, symbolic aesthetic typical of late 20th-century circulating issues. While engraver attribution is often unrecorded, the stylistic school favors clear, modern realism. The obverse typically features the Ghanaian Coat of Arms. The reverse prominently displays the FAO 'Food for All' motif, often a stylized ear of maize or essential crop, encircled by the legend, effectively conveying its thematic purpose through direct and universally understood imagery.

Technical/Grading: Struck in robust aluminium bronze, this 12-gram, 30-millimeter coin offers a substantial feel. For optimal grading, examine high-points: the intricate details of the lion's mane and eagle's feathers on the Coat of Arms; and the individual kernels of maize or fine lines of the agricultural motif on the reverse. The distinctive seven-sided flan generally presents no striking challenges. Well-preserved examples exhibit strong, even luster across fields and sharp definition in legends and central devices.