100 Emalangeni - Sobhuza II Anniversary of king Sobhuza II

Historical Context: The 1975 100 Emalangeni gold coin from the Kingdom of Swaziland commemorates King Sobhuza II, who led the nation to 1968 independence. Struck just seven years post-independence, this issue symbolizes Swazi sovereignty and the monarch's central role in national identity. Sobhuza II’s exceptionally long reign (1899-1982) saw Swaziland establish its modern statehood. Such gold issues served as prestige pieces, asserting national pride and providing a store of wealth for the newly independent African kingdom.

Artistry: While the specific engraver for KM#27 is not widely documented, the coin's design adheres to the prevalent medallic art style of the era for commonwealth nations, often executed by European mints. The obverse typically features a dignified, realistic portrait of King Sobhuza II, rendered with an emphasis on regal authority and a strong profile. This artistic approach prioritizes clarity and gravitas, reflecting the monarch's status, common for modern commemorative issues from newly independent states.

Technical/Grading: For this gold (.900 fine) 8.64g, 24mm coin, critical grading points include the highest relief areas of King Sobhuza II's portrait: the hair, cheekbone, and any details on his attire. Expansive fields, especially on proof-like specimens, are highly susceptible to hairlines and minor bag marks, significantly detracting from the grade. Sharpness of legends and date, along with original mint luster preservation, are paramount for top-tier classifications, indicating minimal handling and optimal storage.