Inspired by the British Sovereign
Modelled after the renowned British sovereign, the 2 Rand gold coin mirrors its specifications while asserting a strong South African identity. Minted between 1961 and 1983 by the South African Mint, it reflects a transitional era in the country’s monetary and political development. Though lesser known to the general public, it holds significant appeal for investors and collectors alike.
Origins rooted in British tradition
When South Africa adopted the rand in 1961, it aimed to reinforce its monetary sovereignty while maintaining continuity with the previous system. The British sovereign was still widely used at the time, a legacy of colonial rule and the Commonwealth.
The 1 and 2 Rand gold coins were thus designed with the exact same dimensions: 22 mm diameter, 7.988 g in total weight, and a 22-carat gold alloy (91.67%). This standardization ensured global recognition, seamless trade, and compatibility with existing storage and measurement systems.
Jan van Riebeeck on the obverse
Unlike the Krugerrand, which features Paul Kruger, the 2 Rand gold coin portrays Jan van Riebeeck, the Dutch founder of Cape Town in 1652. His stylized portrait, based on an idealized posthumous version, was long used on South African currency until political changes in the 1990s prompted its removal.
The springbok on the reverse
The reverse side depicts a springbok in motion — the national animal of South Africa. Designed by acclaimed sculptor Coert Steynberg, it symbolizes elegance, freedom, and a connection to the land. The springbok later reappeared on the Krugerrand. The coin also displays "2 R", the year of issue, and the bilingual legend "SUID-AFRIKA / SOUTH AFRICA".
Technical specifications of the 2 Rand gold coin
- Metal: 22-carat gold (copper alloy)
- Fineness: 916.7 ‰
- Total weight: 7.988 g
- Pure gold content: 7.322 g
- Diameter: 22 mm
- Thickness: approx. 1.57 mm
- Mint: South African Mint (Pretoria)
Its compact format makes the 2 Rand a practical entry point for physical gold investment, with solid liquidity and typically lower premiums.
A little-known fact: melted into Krugerrands
In 1983, the South African Mint halted the production of 1 and 2 Rand gold coins. That same period marked the rise of smaller Krugerrands (1/10 oz, 1/4 oz), tailored for the international market. Unused blanks and even struck coins were reportedly melted down and repurposed for these new formats.
This transition explains the relative scarcity of certain years — especially 1982 and 1983 — and reflects the strategic pivot toward coins designed exclusively for investment purposes.
A coin worth rediscovering
For the discerning investor or dedicated collector, the 2 Rand gold coin offers a balanced blend of accessibility, iconic design, and historical significance. Quiet yet enduring, it bridges South Africa’s monetary past and present with character and integrity.
Buy or sell 2 Rand gold coins at GFI
Interested in buying or selling a South African 2 Rand gold coin at GFI?
Click the link below to access our dedicated page for purchasing or selling South African coins.
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View our 2 Rand gold coin selection
