50 Dollars World Championship of Football 2010 - Durban

Historical Context: Issued by the Republic of Namibia in 2009, this 50 Dollars gold coin commemorates the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a landmark event as the first ever held on African soil. Under the presidency of Hifikepunye Pohamba, Namibia, a sovereign nation since 1990, celebrated this regional achievement, specifically referencing Durban, South Africa, as a host city. This issue underscores Namibia's participation in global cultural events and its solidarity with neighboring nations, reflecting a period of national development and international engagement.

Artistry: While the specific engraver is not publicly attributed, the coin's design adheres to the modern commemorative style, emphasizing realism and dynamic representation. The obverse likely features Namibia's national emblem, while the reverse would depict imagery related to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, possibly incorporating elements symbolizing football, the host city Durban, or the African continent. The miniature scale of 13.92 mm necessitates a highly condensed yet impactful design, typical of precision minting for small gold issues.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine gold with a weight of 1.0 gram, this coin exhibits superior technical qualities. High-points for grading would typically include details on the football, player figures, or any architectural elements representing Durban's stadium, all of which demand an exceptionally sharp strike given the coin's diminutive size. Modern minting processes ensure a precise, often proof-quality finish, characterized by crisp device definition, mirror-like fields, and minimal planchet imperfections, crucial for preserving the intricate design on such a small canvas.