Rhodesia – 1966 – 5 Pounds 1 Pound 10 Shillings – Independence – Gold – Proof – 3 Coin Set

Rhodesia – 1966 – 5 Pounds 1 Pound 10 Shillings – Independence – Gold – Proof – 3 Coin Set

Description:
This three-piece gold-proof set from Rhodesia , issued in 1966 to commemorate independence, is among the country’s most distinctive historical gold issues. The set includes the denominations of 5 pounds , 1 pound , and 10 shillings , each struck in classic 22-karat gold and executed in high-quality proof finish.

All three coins feature the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse, in the style of the second portrait. The reverses depict different symbols of Rhodesia:

• the 5-pound coin with the large state coat of arms,

• the 1-pound coin with the characteristic motif “Lion and Tusk”,

• the 10-shillings coin with the graceful sable antelope .

This set combines representative symbolism with a clear, classic British coinage tradition. The pieces were minted at the South African Mint in Pretoria, which also speaks to their very high quality. The total mintage of the complete gold sets is only 2,000 pieces , which is why intact original sets remain relatively rare on the market and are in high demand internationally.

Technical specifications (set):

• Country: Rhodesia

• Year: 1966

• Occasion: Independence

• Denominations in the set: 5 pounds, 1 pound, 10 shillings

• Metal: Gold .916 (22 karat)

• Minting quality: Proof

Individual weights and fine weights:

• 5 Pounds: 39.94 g gross – approx. 36.59 g fine gold (≈ 1.176 oz Au)

• 1 pound: 7.99 g gross – approx. 7.32 g fine gold (≈ 0.235 oz Au)

• 10 Shillings: 3.99 g gross – approx. 3.66 g fine gold (≈ 0.118 oz Au)

Total fine weight:

• Approximately 47.56 g of pure gold – equivalent to approximately 1.53 oz of Au

More information:

• Mint: South African Mint, Pretoria

• Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II (second portrait)

• Reverse: National coat of arms of Rhodesia (5 pounds), “Lion and Tusk” (1 pound), Sable antelope (10 shillings)

• Edition of gold proof sets: approx. 2,000 sets

A notice:
Combining historical significance, limited mintage, and classic 22-karat gold, this 3-coin proof set is a highly sought-after rarity in the collector’s segment for African gold coins. At the same time, the set offers a harmonious overall package in terms of fine weight, design, and historical context, making it an excellent, high-quality addition to discerning collections.