First Series
1961-1964
Second Series
1965-1989
Third Series
1989-present
Core denominations
10c • 20c • 50c • R1 • R2 • R5
Decimal Coinage (1961-present)
The rand was introduced on 14 February 1961. This page covers the three major decimal series and provides a collector-grade visual atlas for fast identification.
Key Facts
- £1 = R2
- 1s = 10c
- Bi-metal R5 introduced 2004
First Decimal Series (1961-1964)
Obverse: Jan van Riebeeck. Denominations: ½c, 1c, 2½c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c.
- ½ Cent – short-lived
- 1 Cent – ship reverse
- 2½ Cent – “tickey” nickname continues
- 5 Cent – crane motif
- 10 Cent – protea motif
- 20 Cent – ship motif
- 50 Cent – springbok motif
Second Decimal Series (1965-1989)
1965–1969 bilingual variations, then later standardised layouts and updates across denominations.
Third Decimal Series (1989-present)
Smaller, lighter coins; modern alloys; and the bi-metal R5. This is the practical “circulation reference” era for most collectors.
Collector Visual Atlas
Two panels: Decimal (Rand) coinage, then Union/Pound references for cross-era comparison.
Decimal Coin Atlas
Obverse and reverse shown side-by-side. Images are normalized for consistent display.
Sources
- Hern, Brian. Standard Catalogue of South African Coins.
- South African Mint publications.
- South African Reserve Bank (SARB) historical summaries.