South African Gold Krugerrand

Produced by the South African Mint Company, the South African Gold Krugerrand accounted for 90% of the gold coin market up until the 1980's.

This particular bullion coin contains one ounce of gold, along with copper, to give it an actual weight of 1.0909 ounces.

Because it was initially intended to circulate as currency, copper was the chosen alloy to be added to make it more durable. The durability would help to prevent against scratches and dents.

Unlike silver alloyed coins that keep a gold appearance, the copper gives it sort of an orange color.

For a number of years it was only available in the one ounce size. In 1980 the half ounce, quarter ounce and tenth ounce were introduced.

Due to the success of this coin, it prompted other gold producing countries to begin minting their own gold bullion coins.