Lesotho gained independence from Britain on October 4, 1966, making it one of the last Southern African territories to do so under relatively peaceful terms — a deliberate contrast to the armed conflicts unfolding across the continent. This gold issue was struck specifically for the independence occasion, not for circulation, and forms part of a matched commemorative set that included denominations from 2 to 40 Maloti.
Moshoeshoe II, the namesake king, had been placed under house arrest by the British just months before independence for political intransigence. He was released in time to preside over the ceremonies.
Lesotho gained independence from Britain on October 4, 1966, making it one of the last Southern African territories to do so under relatively peaceful terms — a deliberate contrast to the armed conflicts unfolding across the continent. This gold issue was struck specifically for the independence occasion, not for circulation, and forms part of a matched commemorative set that included denominations from 2 to 40 Maloti.
Moshoeshoe II, the namesake king, had been placed under house arrest by the British just months before independence for political intransigence. He was released in time to preside over the ceremonies.