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South African 5 Shilling Silver Coin (1892) Portrait of President Johannes Paulus Kruger Single Shaft
Today's Purchase Price
MS
AU
XF
VF
¥350,000
¥63,000
¥42000
¥28000
Cleaned
¥17,500
Diameter :
Weight :
Purity :
Thickness :
38.8 mm
28.28 g
92.5% Silver
Product Description
South African 5 Shilling Silver Coin (1892)
Single Shaft Design
Buying All Conditions
GoldSilverJapan
Introduction
The 1892 South African (Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek/ZAR) 5 Shilling Silver Coin is a highly historically valuable coin, minted by a now-defunct nation to demonstrate its sovereignty and independence to the world.
This page introduces the "Single Shaft" design of this 5 Shilling Silver Coin.
GoldSilverJapan purchases these single shaft 5 Shilling Silver Coins regardless of their condition.
We appraise all coins, from nearly new to worn, long-circulated pieces with scratches, stains, discoloration, and cleaning marks.
What kind of country was the Republic of South Africa (ZAR)?
The Republic of South Africa (ZAR) was an independent nation founded by Dutch immigrants, the Boers, in the late 19th century.
Located mainly in the Transvaal region of present-day South Africa, the ZAR was in fierce political and military conflict with the British Empire, the world's most powerful empire at the time.
As the discovery of gold mines increased the region's importance, the ZAR sought to maintain its status as an independent nation despite pressure from major powers.
This five-shilling silver coin was issued amid this tension and could be seen as a statement of national will.
Portrait on the obverse: Johannes Paulus Kruger
The obverse of the silver coin features Johannes Paulus Kruger (1825–1904).
He was the president of the Republic of South Africa and a spiritual pillar of the Boer community.
The fact that the president of the republic, rather than a king, had his own portrait engraved on the coin conveyed an extremely strong political message at the time.
It was a declaration that the country was no longer a kingdom, but an independent republic.
The Significance of the 5 Shilling Denomination
At the time, the ZAR was based on the pound system, with 5 shillings equivalent to 1/4 of a pound.
While this coin had a practical denomination for everyday transactions, it was also a genuine silver coin made of high-quality silver and had internationally recognized value.
This denomination also served to demonstrate the ZAR's economic independence.
Basic Specifications
Country of Issue: Republic of South Africa (ZAR)
Year of Issue: 1892
Date: 5 shillings (1/4 pound)
Material: Silver (.925)
Weight: Approximately 28.28g
Diameter: Approximately 38.8mm
Place of Manufacture: Berlin Mint, Germany
Why were they minted in Berlin, Germany?
At the time, the ZAR lacked the necessary advanced minting technology.
Furthermore, using a mint under British influence was an unacceptable choice, both politically and symbolically.
As a result, the Berlin Mint in Germany was selected.
This choice quietly conveys the ZAR's different diplomatic stance from that of the United Kingdom.
Reverse Design and National Philosophy
The reverse features the coat of arms of the Republic of South Africa, with a foal wagon at its center.
The words "EENDRAGT MAAKT MAGT" (Unity is Strength) are engraved around it.
This phrase symbolizes the spirit of unity and perseverance that was necessary for the small nation's survival.
About the Single Shaft Design
The silver coin featured on this page is a single shaft type.
The "shaft" here refers to the shaft (rod-shaped part) extending from the front of the foal wagon depicted in the coat of arms on the reverse.
The single shaft type features only one shaft.
The composition is very simple, emphasizing practicality and simplicity.
Differences from the Double Shaft
The double shaft type depicts two parallel oxcart axles, creating a more powerful and symbolic impression.
In contrast, the single shaft type is considered closer to the original design and has a more straightforward and understated impression.
This difference is not one of superiority or inferiority, but rather a difference in design philosophy and expression.
Both are officially issued official variations and are equally important historically.
Why do the two types exist?
The differences between the single shaft and double shaft are thought to have arisen for the following reasons:
Differences in the design stage of the engraving die
Modifications to adjust visibility and symbolism
Improvements in the manufacturing process
Importantly, the fact that the single shaft is "primitive" or "simple" does not necessarily mean it is less valuable.
In fact, it is often valued as a variation that retains the original design.
Important Notice Regarding Condition
GoldSilverJapan purchases coins regardless of their condition.
Unused
Generally available
Some wear
Some scratches, stains, or discoloration
Some items have been cleaned
All items are subject to appraisal.
We will never refuse to buy an item based solely on its condition.
Why is it valuable even in poor condition?
The Republic of South Africa (ZAR), which issued this silver coin, ceased to exist in 1902 after its defeat in the Boer War.
In other words, it is a "lost national coin" that will never be issued again.
As a result, its historical value will not be diminished regardless of its condition.
Furthermore, the material value of the silver itself contributes to its long-term stable value.
GoldSilverJapan's Purchasing Policy
We comprehensively evaluate the following factors:
Condition
Single-shaft variation
Current market price
Selling multiple coins at once
Certificates and slabs are not required.
Uncertified items are acceptable.
Summary
The 1892 South African 5 shilling silver coin is a precious silver coin that conveys the history and spirit of a vanished nation.
The single-shaft design is an important official variation that reflects the country's simple and honest outlook.
At GoldSilverJapan, we understand this background and carefully appraise each coin.
All appraisals and consultations are free of charge. We offer photo appraisals, mail appraisals, and in-store consultations.
A place where your historic coins can be properly evaluated.
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