10 Emalangeni - Sobhuza II 75 Anniversary of the King

Historical Context: The 1974 10 Emalangeni gold coin from the Kingdom of Swaziland commemorates the 75th birthday of King Sobhuza II, a monumental figure in African history. Reigning for over 82 years, Sobhuza II led Swaziland to independence in 1968 and became known as the "Lion of Swaziland." This commemorative issue, struck just six years after independence, underscored the nation's stability and profound reverence for its monarch, whose leadership was instrumental in preserving Swazi culture and sovereignty during a period of significant regional change.

Artistry: While the specific engraver is not commonly documented, the coin's design adheres to a classical, realistic portraiture style typical of official state commemoratives of the era. The obverse features a dignified, mature bust of King Sobhuza II, rendered with meticulous detail capturing his regal bearing. The reverse typically displays the national coat of arms or a symbolic motif, accompanied by the denomination and year, executed with precision to ensure legibility and artistic balance. The overall aesthetic emphasizes solemnity and national pride.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine gold, this substantial coin (11.12g, 27mm) typically exhibits a strong strike. Key high-points for grading include the highest relief areas of the King's hair, cheekbone, and the intricate details within the national emblem on the reverse. Well-preserved examples will display sharp definition across all design elements, a vibrant cartwheel luster in the fields, and minimal evidence of contact marks, particularly on the broader, open surfaces. Planchet quality is generally high, reflecting the premium nature of a gold commemorative.