25 Thebe

Historical Context: The 25 Thebe coin, issued by Botswana from 1998 to 2009, circulated during a period of sustained democratic governance and economic prosperity. This era spanned the presidencies of Festus Mogae (1999-2008) and early Ian Khama. Botswana, a model of stability and prudent diamond revenue management, utilized its Pula and Thebe currency system, established in 1976, to assert monetary sovereignty and facilitate daily commerce.

Artistry: The 25 Thebe coin exhibits a functional realist aesthetic, typical of modern circulating issues. The obverse features Botswana's national coat of arms, depicting two zebras supporting a shield with cogwheels, waves, and a bull’s head, surmounted by an antelope and "PULA." The reverse showcases a majestic springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) in motion, a native Southern African antelope symbolizing the nation's rich wildlife. This clear, nationally symbolic design likely originated from a prominent minting facility.

Technical/Grading: Struck in nickel clad steel, this coin has a mass of 3.5 grams and a diameter of 20 millimeters (KM#28, Schön#26). For grading, critical high-points on the obverse include the zebras' stripes and the shield's elements. On the reverse, the springbok's horns, eye, and hindquarter musculature are key areas to assess strike quality and wear. Modern minting ensures consistent strikes, though collectors should inspect for minor planchet flaws or slight weakness in highest relief areas, common to clad coinage.