Thursday 18 August 2011

1902 Veld Pond

Year: 1902

Coin: Veld Pond

Diameter: 22,8mm

Mass: Approximately 8 grammes

Edge: Milled

Designer: P.J. Kloppers

Metal Content: Virtually 24 carat gold

Mintage Figure: 986
 

Obverse

Design:
ZAR in decorative script

Inscription:
ZAR 1902

Remarks:
This is South Africa's most unusual coin. The 'Veld Pond', as it is known, was struck at a gold mine workshop in Pilgrims Rest from hand made dies using a heavy fly press. There have been many known forgeries. These coins are also known as Siege pieces, or Money of Necessity.
 

Reverse

Design:
Een Pond, in decorative lettering

Inscription:
EEN POND

Remarks:
N/A
 
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A Brief History

During the Anglo-Boer war there was a shortage of coins for provisions for the Boer troops. Consequently, a Mint was established in the field/veld at Pilgrims Rest. A 29 year old former school teacher, Mr PJ Kloppers, was appointed as the Head of the Mint. A hand press was improvised and discs of 24 carat gold were manufactured. Remarkably, these coins were struck with only one pair of dies and a lathe turned by two men. These coins are classified as ‘Siege Pieces’ or ‘Money of Necessity’. Forgeries were made as early as 1903 as it was a lucrative business after the Anglo-Boer war when high prices (£8 - £10) were paid by the public for them.

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