2 1/2 Shillings Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek

Emittent South African Republic
Jahr 1892-1897
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nennwert 21/2 Shillings = 1/2 Crown (1/8)
Währung Z.A.R. Pond (1874-1902)
Material Silver (.925) (92.5% Ag, 7.5% Cu)
Gewicht 14.14 g
Durchmesser 32.3 mm
Dicke 2.32 mm
Form Round
Prägetechnik Milled
Ausrichtung Medal alignment ↑↑
Stempelschneider Otto Schultz
Im Umlauf bis
Referenz(en) KM#7, Hern#Z30-35
Aversbeschreibung Bearded bust of President Johannes Paulus Kruger left, legend around.
Aversschrift Latin
Averslegende ZUID AFRIKAANSCHE REPUBLIEK
(Translation: South African Republic)
Reversbeschreibung Arms of the South African Republic below denomination and date.
Reversschrift Latin
Reverslegende 21/2 SHILLINGS * 1892 * EENDRAGT MAAKT MAGT
(Translation: Unity makes strength)
Rand Reeded
Prägestätte Berlin, Germany (1280-date)
Pretoria, South Africa(1890-1902, 1923-1992)
Auflage 1892 - Hern#Z30; Berlin mint - 16 300
1892 - Hern#Z30; Berlin mint, Proof - 50
1893 - Hern#Z31; Pretoria mint - 134 800
1894 - Hern#Z32; Pretoria mint - 135 012
1895 - Hern#Z33; Pretoria mint - 182 336
1896 - Hern#Z34; Pretoria mint - 284 760
1897 - Hern#Z35; Pretoria mint - 149 160
Numisquare-ID 1104594730
Zusätzliche Informationen

Historical Context: This 2 1/2 Shillings coin, minted 1892-1897, encapsulates a pivotal era for the Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR). Issued under President Stephanus Johannes Paulus Kruger, its production symbolized the ZAR's economic independence and national sovereignty. This period, marked by the Witwatersrand gold rush, saw the Republic assert its identity amidst British imperial pressures, preceding the Second Boer War. The coin served as a tangible declaration of statehood.

Artistry: The coin's design reflects late 19th-century European medallic art. The obverse portrait of President Kruger, attributed to German engraver Otto Schultz, is a realistic, veristic portrayal capturing his distinctive features. The reverse proudly displays the intricate Coat of Arms of the ZAR, featuring an eagle, lion, wagon, and anchor, alongside the national motto "EENDRACHT MAAKT MACHT" (Unity Makes Might). This combination of leader's effigy and state emblem powerfully communicates the Republic's identity.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 silver, weighing 14.14 grams, 32.3 mm, this denomination offers several key grading points. On the obverse, examine the highest points of Kruger's hair, beard, and cheekbone for wear. The reverse's intricate Coat of Arms is particularly susceptible to softness; check the eagle's breast, lion's mane, and wagon's canopy. While the obverse generally shows a strong strike, the central reverse can exhibit weaker definition. Original cartwheel luster is desirable; bag marks are common for this large silver piece.

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