Silver and Gold Type Set, 1897, Circulation Issue
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Updated:
10/6/2025
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1897 ZAR coins
The year 1897 was part of the final series of coinage issued by the Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR), also known as the Transvaal Republic, featuring the effigy of President Paul Kruger. The ZAR struck silver and gold coins in 1897.
Silver ZAR coins
Denominations: Silver coins were struck in 1897 in denominations including the Threepence, Sixpence, Shilling, and Two-Shillings.
Threepence: This denomination was struck bearing Paul Kruger's effigy from 1892 until 1897.
Gold ZAR coins
Denominations: Gold coins issued in 1897 include the Pond and Half Pond.
1897 Gold Pond:
Composition: Gold fineness of 0.9160.
Weight: 7.988 grams.
Diameter: 22.00 mm.
Thickness: 1.56 mm.
Market Value: An 1897 Gold ZAR Kruger Pond graded AU58 was listed for sale at R 25,000.
1897 Gold Half Pond:
This denomination was struck from 1892 to 1897.
Market Value: The value varies significantly based on grade. For example, a Half Pond graded AU 53 was listed for R 125,000, while one graded VF DETAILS was listed for R 25,000.
Design and historical context
Kruger Effigy: All 1897 ZAR coins feature the effigy of President Paul Kruger on the obverse.
Ox Wagon Reverse: The reverse of the coins generally depicts an ox wagon. For the earlier 1892 issues, there were varieties with single or double shafts on the ox wagon, with the single shaft issues being scarcer. However, this distinction might not be as pronounced or present in the 1897 issues.
President Kruger: Paul Kruger was the third president of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek during this period.
Pretoria Mint: The ZAR's full coinage series began production in 1892 following the establishment of a State Mint in Pretoria.
British Standard: ZAR coins were designed to be identical in weight with the prescriptions of the British Coinage Act of 1870.
Rarity and value
Overall Rarity: 1897 ZAR coins are generally considered collectible and valuable, especially in higher grades.
Grading: Graded coins, certified by services like NGC, are particularly sought after by collectors. The specific grade significantly impacts the coin's market value.
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Silver and Gold Type Set, 1897, Circulation Issue
By ManfredMajewski
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