Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 1 Lilangeni 1981, KM# 32, Swaziland (eSwatini), Sobhuza II, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Food Day
  • 1 Lilangeni 1981, KM# 32, Swaziland (eSwatini), Sobhuza II, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Food Day
Description

Sobhuza II (also known as Nkhotfotjeni, Mona) (1899–1982) was the Paramount Chief and later King of Swaziland for 82 years and 254 days, the longest verifiable reign of any monarch in recorded history. Sobhuza was born on 22 July 1899 at Zombodze Royal Residence, the son of Inkhosikati Lomawa Ndwandwe and King Ngwane V. When he was only four months old, his father died suddenly while dancing incwala. Sobhuza was chosen King soon after that and his grandmother Labotsibeni and his uncle Prince Malunge led the Swazi nation until his maturity in 1921. Sobhuza led Swaziland through independence until his death in 1982. He was succeeded by Mswati III, his young son with Inkhosikati Ntfombi Tfwala, who was crowned in 1986.

Engraver: Michael Rizzello

Obverse

Depicts a bust of Sobhuza II, 1/4 right, sporting his signature goatee, and wearing an inyoni (a ceremonial headdress worn by the King of Swaziland), a ligcebesha (a type of traditional beaded necklace) and an umhelwane (a toga-like garment). The state name below.

SWAZILAND

Reverse

Half length figure husking corn, denomination and logo of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

World Food Day is celebrated every year around the world on 16 October in honor of the date of the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in 1945. The day is celebrated widely by many other organisations concerned with food security, including the World Food Programme and the International Fund for Agricultural Development.

FOOD FIRST LIJAHA SISU
FAO
16 OCT
WORLD FOOD DAY
1
LILANGENI 1981

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 11.65 g
Diameter 30 mm
Thickness 2.2 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal

Related coins

Democratic Republic, World Food Day

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

Brass, 7.2 g, ⌀ 27 mm
Islamic State, World Food Summit

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

Cupronickel, 25.95 g, ⌀ 38 mm
Democratic Republic, World Food Day

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

Silver, 9.06 g, ⌀ 27 mm