28/08/2026
Interesting Coin Fact
THE SOUTH AFRICAN 5 SHILLING CROWN COIN
Nelspruit Jewel Exchange • Trusted Since 2004
🪙 Today we're taking a closer look at one of South Africa's most iconic collectible coins — the Union 5 Shilling, also known as the Crown.
The 5 Shilling Crown was minted from 1947 to 1960, making it a fascinating piece of South African numismatic history. Interestingly, no 5 Shilling coins were minted in South Africa during the period 1923–1946.
🏆 THE RAREST VS THE MOST COMMON
The 1959 5 Shilling Crown is one of the most sought-after dates by collectors.
• Only 6,139 coins were minted in 1959. • Of these, only 950 were proof coins. • Weight: 28.27 grams • Diameter: 38.8 mm
Because of its very low mintage, the 1959 Crown is highly desirable and often commands much greater collector interest.
In comparison, the 1952 5 Shilling Crown is one of the most commonly found dates.
• Total minted: 1,725,500 coins
This much higher mintage helps explain why the 1952 issue is generally easier to find than the scarce 1959 issue.
✨ THREE BEAUTIFUL DESIGNS
The Union Crown is especially interesting because it features three different commemorative designs:
1️⃣ 1947–1951 & 1953–1959 Features the famous Springbok design on the reverse.
2️⃣ 1952 Memorial Crown Features Jan van Riebeeck's ship, commemorating 300 years since his arrival at the Cape in 1652.
3️⃣ 1960 Memorial Crown A special commemorative design celebrating 50 years of the Union of South Africa from 1910 to 1960.
📌 GOLDEN RULE OF COLLECTING
Rarity and scarcity are important factors that influence collector value. A lower mintage can make a coin far more desirable, especially when demand among collectors is high.
Have old coins at home? Bring them in for a FREE professional valuation with absolutely NO obligation to sell.
📍 Nelspruit Jewel Exchange 21 Henshall Street next to the Department of Home Affairs.
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