Description

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) released the fourth decimal coin series on 3 May 2023. The fourth decimal coin series is based on the theme of deep ecology, which celebrates the interconnectedness of humans and other living organisms as an integral part of the environment.

The SARB has also retained the 11 official languages of South Africa which are rotated on a 10-year cycle to ensure that every language is represented on the coin.

Obverse

Depicts a national coat of arms for South Africa (adopted on 27 April 2000), the country name in Southern Sotho (left) and Northern Sotho (Sepedi) (right) languages, date above, engraver's initials below.

The Coat of Arms has many elements organized into two oval groups, one on top of the other. Together the two ovals create a symbol of infinity.

The Lower or Foundation Oval:
At the base is the motto "Diverse People Unite" written in the Khoisan language of the ǀXam people. On either side of the motto, pairs of elephant tusks. The tusks enclose two ears of wheat. At the centre is a shield. On the shield are depicted two Khoisan figures. The Khoisan are the oldest inhabitants of South Africa. The figures on the shield are based on the Linton Panel (a world-famous piece of rock art now housed in the South African Museum in Cape Town), and face each other in greeting and unity. Above the shield, a crossed spear and knobkierie (a traditional fighting stick) separate the lower oval from the upper oval.

The Upper or Ascendant Oval
At the centre is the South African National Flower, the King Protea. It is comprised of interlocking diamonds. The protea forms the chest of the secretary bird, whose head and wings stretch out above it. Between its wings, the rising sun.

Engraver: M. J. Scheepers

Afrika Borwa 2023 Afrika-Borwa
ǃKE E: ǀXARRA ǁKE
MJS

Reverse

Depicts the Knysna turaco, a bird that is commonly referred to as the Knysna Lourie in South Africa, or the Knysna loerie in Afrikaans. This vibrant species inhabits the lush forests of southern and eastern South Africa, as well as Swaziland.

The Knysna turaco is usually seen flying between forest trees, or hopping along branches. It feeds on fruit, insects and earthworms. It has a loud kow-kow-kow-kow call.

Engraver: Linda Lotriet

PB 50c

Edge

50 Cents

Afrika Borwa - Afrika-Borwa
KM#
Characteristics
Material Bronze Plated Steel
Weight 4.5 g
Diameter 22 mm
Thickness 1.9 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
South African Mint (SA Mint)

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