South Africa – 1963 – Rand Twin Proof Set – 2 Rand and 1 Rand – Includes original blue SA Mint case

South Africa – 1963 – Rand Twin Proof Set – 2 Rand and 1 Rand – Includes original blue SA Mint case

The blue Twin Set from South Africa, issued in 1963, is a numismatic marvel consisting of two gold coins worth 2 Rand and 1 Rand. Both coins have a common design and differ in face value.

Obverse: Both coins have a distinctive obverse
with a 1/4 length portrait of Jan van Riebeeck, the important Dutch settler known for founding Cape Town. The legend surrounding the portrait is engraved in Latin script and reads: “UNITY IS STRENGTH * ENDRAG MAAK MAG *”. This powerful message captures
the essence of national unity. The design goes back to Willie Myburg, whose artistic skills immortalized van Riebeeck’s contribution to South African history.

Reverse: A beautifully detailed image is featured on the reverse of each coin. The jumping springbok is depicted above the coin’s face value. This dynamic representation of South Africa’s national animal is framed by inscriptions in Latin script: “SOUTH AFRICA·1964·SUID-AFRIKA” and the value either “2R” for the 2-rand coin or “1R” for
the 1 edge. The initials “CLS” are discreetly inserted and refer to the designer or mint master of the coin.

The 2 Rand coin is made of gold with a fineness of .917, a weight of 7.99 grams, a diameter of 22.0 mm and a thickness of 1.57 mm. The 1 Rand coin has the same gold composition
and fineness, is lighter and smaller, weighs 3.99 grams, has a diameter of 19.5 mm and a thickness of 1.1 mm.

Only 1008 of these blue sets were issued, making them a rare and valuable addition to any collection. The blue set with its rich symbolism and fine gold composition has more than just monetary value
but also captures a piece of South African heritage.