1oz South African Krugerrand Gold Bullion Coin
Gold Bullion Coin · Rose/Orange-tinted Yellow Gold. The alloy consists of gold and copper, providing a distinctive warm hue and increased durability.
Purity: 22 Karat (91.67% gold, 8.33% copper); .917 Fineness. Contains exactly 1 troy ounce of fine gold.
Type
Gold Bullion Coin
Purity
22 Karat (91.67% gold, 8.33% copper); .917 Fineness. Contains exactly 1 troy ounce of fine gold.
Gold Type
Rose/Orange-tinted Yellow Gold. The alloy consists of gold and copper, providing a distinctive warm hue and increased durability.
Weight
Total weight: 33.93 grams (1.0909 troy oz). Fine gold content: 1 troy ounce (31.103 grams).
Description
The South African Krugerrand is the world's first modern gold bullion coin. Its obverse features the profile of Paul Kruger, the four-term president of the old South African Republic. The coin is famous for its unique copper-gold alloy, which gives it a more durable surface and a distinctive reddish-orange glow compared to 24K pure gold coins. It is the gold standard for many private investors due to its international liquidity and recognizable design.
Key Features
Bilingual country name (Afrikaans/English), Paul Kruger portrait, 22K copper-gold alloy, and a weight exceeding 1 ounce to account for the alloy metals.
Color & Finish
Deep orange-gold luster characteristic of the copper alloy. The finish appears to be a standard bullion strike with a semi-proof or satin-like field and frosted relief.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'SOUTH AFRICA' in English and 'SUID-AFRIKA' in Afrikaans. Reverse (implied): 'KRUGERRAND', 'FYNGOUD 1OZ FINE GOLD', and the year of mintage.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 32.77 mm; Thickness: 2.84 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a solid gold bullion coin.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded (serrated) edge to prevent coin clipping or filing of precious metal.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Coin features a reeded edge consisting of approximately 160-180 serrations.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck bullion. Features fine detailing in Kruger's beard and the serrated border known as 'denticles' along the rim.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive orange hue (often faked with brass which lacks the weight), high-relief sharp text, 180-degree die orientation, and precise reeding on the edge.
Origin & Maker
South Africa; minted by the South African Mint and Rand Refinery.
Era & Period
Contemporary Bullion Era (Original design released in 1967). This design has remained constant since its inception.
Age Estimate
Modern. While the first Krugerrand was minted in 1967, this specific specimen appears to be from a recent production run based on the crispness of the strike.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of South African heritage and the historic gold mining industry of the Witwatersrand. It revolutionized private gold ownership worldwide.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Surface appears clean with high-profile details preserved. No significant scratches or edge dings visible on the obverse.
Value Estimate
Market value is determined by the current gold spot price plus a small dealer premium (typically 2-5%). Primarily valued for gold content.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid cleaning with abrasives. Store in a non-PVC plastic capsule or flip. Handle only by the edges to prevent skin oils from causing toning.
Similar Items
American Gold Eagle (also 22K), Canadian Gold Maple Leaf (24K), Austrian Philharmonic (24K), British Britannia (24K since 2013).
Interesting Facts
By 1980, the Krugerrand accounted for more than 90% of the global gold coin market. It was the first coin to contain exactly one ounce of fine gold.