South African Gold Krugerrands

South African Gold Krugerrands at BGASC

Discover the fascinating history of the South African Gold Krugerrand with BGASC, the coin with the richest history among gold bullion coins worldwide.

The Story Behind the South African Gold Krugerrand

The South African Gold Krugerrand has a unique history. It was first introduced in 1967 to showcase South Africa’s abundant gold, precious metal, and gem resources. As the inaugural modern gold bullion coin for private investment, it started as a 1 Troy oz coin with 22-karat gold content.

Despite its initial popularity, the availability of the Gold Krugerrand faced challenges in the 1970s due to Western economic sanctions. This period coincided with South Africa’s apartheid system, leading to a boycott of South African goods by Western governments. While the Gold Krugerrand continued to reach North American and European buyers, alternative gold coins like the Canadian Gold Maple Leaf and others emerged between 1979 and 1989.

Design Features of the South African Gold Krugerrand

The coin has maintained consistent design elements for over five decades. The obverse features a left-profile portrait of Paul Kruger, a prominent Boer military and political figure, with the Afrikaans term “Suid-Afrika” and the English translation “South Africa.” The reverse depicts a Springbok antelope, the official symbol of the Republic of South Africa.

A notable feature distinguishing bullion from proof Gold Krugerrands is the 160 serrations on the bullion coin’s edges compared to 220 on the proof version.

Minting History

Initially limited, mintages of the South African Gold Krugerrand rose over the years. In 1980, its popularity led to the introduction of fractional-weight coins: 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz, all with 22-karat gold content. Production decreased post-apartheid, with only 23,277 coins struck in 1998.

For the 50th anniversary, Silver Krugerrands were introduced.

Variations and the South African Mint

Despite starting as a 1 Troy oz coin, the Gold Krugerrand expanded its collection due to high demand. Three fractional-weight coins remain in production. The South African Mint, a privately owned entity, collaborates with the South African Reserve Bank and the Rand Refinery to produce these coins. Established in 1890, the mint returned to independent status in 1941.

Acquire Your South African Gold Krugerrands from BGASC

For inquiries about purchasing Gold Krugerrands, contact BGASC at 888-992-4272. You also connect with us online via our web chat or send us an email with your inquiries.