Gold coins from Gabon

Gold coins from Gabon have gained a lot of popularity among collectors and investors in recent years. Gabon, a country in Central Africa, has a rich history of gold mining and is known for producing high quality gold. The unique design, impeccable craftsmanship and limited mintage of Gabonese gold coins have made them highly sought after in the numismatic and investment markets.

One of the most famous series of gold coins from Gabon is the Gabonese Springbok collection. These coins feature a graceful image of a springbok antelope, the national animal of South Africa, on the obverse. The reverse side features various elaborate motifs inspired by Gabonese culture, wildlife or natural landscapes. The use of innovative minting techniques such as selective inking or laser etching further enhances the visual appeal of these coins.

The limited mintage of Gabonese gold coins makes them even more attractive. The Gabonese government often issues limited mintage coins, which are relatively rare compared to other gold coins. This rarity factor adds to their investment value, as collectors and investors are attracted to the potential future price appreciation.

General facts about Gabon and its people

Gabon, located on the equator, is a fascinating and picturesque country in Central Africa. Despite economic problems and a lack of infrastructure, Gabon offers breathtaking landscapes that are a real feast for the eyes. The country, officially called the “Gabonese Republic,” is home to about 2.39 million people (in the summer of 2023) and borders Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and the Republic of Congo.

Gabon is known for its vibrant culture, hospitable people and some of the most beautiful beaches on the African continent. These factors contribute to the popularity of the country as a vacation destination. If you ever plan to visit this country, here are some remarkable facts about Gabon that you should know.

French colonization in Gabon

French colonization in Gabon began with the arrival of Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, an Italian explorer, in 1875. His goal was to secure Gabon-Congo and establish it as a French colony. Upon his arrival, Pierre founded Franceville, which would later become one of Gabon’s largest cities, and assumed the role of colonial governor. There is no evidence of conflict between the colonizers and the native population during this period. In 1885, the French officially took control of the region, and some Bantu groups lived harmoniously with the French presence. From 1910, Gabon became a territory of French Equatorial Africa, which flourished until 1958.

Gabon – Independence

After World War II, the Allies launched an invasion of Gabon with the aim of removing the pro-French colonial administration. Their efforts proved successful, and Gabon gained autonomy as a republic in 1958, although it remained part of the French Community. But it was not until 1960 that Gabon finally gained full independence from France. Gabon’s National Day is celebrated on August 17 to commemorate this important milestone in the country’s history.

Who was Omar/Albert-Bernard Bongo (1935-2009), whose face is depicted on some gold coins?

Omar Bongo, who was president of Gabon for 42 years from 1967 until his death in 2009, is the longest-reigning African head of state. He was born on December 10, 1935 in the Beteke region of Gabon and was originally named Albert-Bernard Bongo. In 1973, he embraced Islam and subsequently changed his name to El Hajj Omar Bongo.

What language is spoken in Gabon?

Gabon, like several other countries in Africa, is one of the francophone countries where French is spoken. Given the historical colonial relationship with France, it is natural that French is the official language in Gabon. However, in addition to French, there are numerous indigenous languages spoken in Gabon. Various Bantu languages such as Fang, Nzebi, Bandjabi, and Myene continue to be understood and used by local communities in Gabon.

What is the most popular sport in Gabon?

As in many other African countries, soccer is the most popular sport in Gabon. The Gabon national men’s soccer team is known as “Les Panthers” or “The Panthers”.

Although the national team has yet to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, it has participated at least eight times in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the continent’s premier soccer tournament.

Although soccer is of great cultural importance in Gabon, it is not the only sport played in Gabon. Other sports, such as basketball, athletics and taekwondo, are also very popular among the Gabonese population.

Gold coins from Gabon – our favorites

Gabon 1969 – 20000 – 1000 Francs – 5 Coins Proof Set – NGC PCGS 64-69 UCAM

This is the impressive Gabon Gold Proof set from 1969. It consists of a collection of eight coins with a face value of 20,000 and 1,000 francs each. What sets this set apart is the exceptional quality of the gold coins, which have been officially certified by NGC and PCGS with ratings ranging from PR64 to PF69 Ultra/Deep Cameo.

Only 4,000 copies of each coin were circulated, so the total number of sets is limited to a maximum of 4,000. Coins included in this set include:

20,000 francs (commemorating the first moon landing)

10,000 francs (commemorating the first moon landing)

5,000 francs (with the portrait of Albert Bernard Bongo)

3,000 francs (depiction of Albert Bernard Bongo)

1,000 francs (with the portrait of Albert Bernard Bongo)

These coins were minted in Gabon and bear the motif of either Albert Bernard Bongo or the first moon landing. They are made of gold and have weights of 70 g, 34.9 g, 17.5 g, 10.5 g and 3.5 g, respectively. The gold coins have a fineness of .900. The mintage is limited to only 4,000 pieces for both the sets and the individual coins together.

Gabon 1971 – 5000 Francs – Visit of the President Pompidou – 17,5g – NGC PF69 UCAM

Gabon 1971 – 5000 Francs – Visit of President Pompidou is an exceptional special issue commemorating a significant historical event. This particular coin commemorates the official visit of the President of the French Republic to Gabon on February 11, 1971.

On the obverse of the coin above the nominal value is the national coat of arms. The inscription reads: “UNITY JUSTICE TRAVAIL 11 FÉVRIER 1971, VISITE OFFICIELLE DU PRÉSIDENT DE LA RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE AU GABON”, which means “UNITY JUSTICE WORK 11 FEBRUARY 1971, OFFICIAL VISIT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC TO GABON”. In addition, the face value of the coin is indicated as “5000 FRANCS”.

The reverse of the coin shows a bust facing left, representing the effigy of the esteemed personality associated with this important event: Georges Pompidou. Next to the bust is engraved the name “GEORGES POMPIDOU” to emphasize its importance in this historical context.

Gabon issued this exceptional coin in 1971 with a face value of 5000 francs. It was carefully handcrafted from gold with a fineness of 0.900, which ensures exceptional quality and durability. The coin weighs 17.5 grams and has a diameter of 33 mm, which makes it a considerable and visually captivating piece.

This remarkable coin was minted by the renowned Monnaie de Paris, known for its excellence in producing coins of exceptional design and craftsmanship. Every detail of this commemorative edition has been carefully crafted to highlight the significance of President Pompidou’s visit to Gabon.

This commemorative coin symbolizes the historical relations between France and Gabon and has a high value for numismatic collectors. Its distinctive design and the history it represents make it a coveted piece for history and coin enthusiasts alike.

Details:

Country: Gabon

Year: 1971

Value: 5000 francs

Material: gold

Fineness: .900

Weight: 17.5 gram

Diameter: 33 mm

Mint: Paris Mint / Monnaie de Paris

Gabon gold coins summary

In recent years, the popularity of Gabonese gold coins has been fueled by growing interest in alternative investments and the desire to diversify portfolios. Investors are increasingly looking to tangible assets such as gold to protect themselves against inflation, economic uncertainties or currency fluctuations. Gabonese gold coins offer a tangible and portable form of investment, making them an attractive option for those looking to protect their assets.

Moreover, the aesthetic beauty and cultural significance of Gabonese gold coins make them sought-after collector’s items. Many collectors are fascinated by the artistic craftsmanship and stories behind the design elements of the coins. Gabonese gold coins often reflect the country’s cultural heritage, natural wonders and iconic symbols, making them not only valuable works of art, but also valuable investments.

Overall, the combination of exceptional design, limited mintage, high purity, and investment potential has fueled the popularity of gold coins from Gabon. Whether sought by investors for their intrinsic value or collected for their beauty and historical significance, Gabonese gold coins continue to attract the attention of people around the world.