British Colony (1946-1970) Coin List
The British Colony of Rhodesia, from 1946 to 1970, experienced important political and economic changes that were reflected in its monetary system. During this period, the region went from being part of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland to unilaterally declaring its independence, which had a significant impact on the issuance and circulation of coins.
Coins of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland (1955-1963)
In 1955, the Rhodesia and Nyasaland dollar was introduced as the official currency of the Federation. This decimal system replaced the pound sterling and was divided into 100 cents. Coins issued during this period included denominations of 1/2 cent, 1 cent, 3 pence, 6 pence, 1 shilling, 2 shillings and 2 shillings and 6 pence. These pieces featured designs that reflected the identity of the Federation, such as the coat of arms and portraits of Queen Elizabeth II. The British Royal Mint was responsible for the minting of these coins, ensuring their high quality and uniformity.
Rhodesian Coins after the Unilateral Declaration of Independence (1965-1970)
Following the Unilateral Declaration of Independence in 1965, Rhodesia began issuing its own currency, the Rhodesian dollar. Initially, Federation coins continued to be used, but new pieces were gradually introduced. Denominations included 1 cent, 2.5 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents and 25 cents. These new designs reflected Rhodesian identity, featuring national symbols such as the Black Saber and the country's coat of arms. Due to international sanctions, Rhodesia had to resort to private mintages to produce its coins, resulting in some variations in the quality and consistency of the pieces. This period marked an era of economic isolation and challenges for the Rhodesian monetary system.
The most valuable and popular coins
The most valuable British Colony (1946-1970) coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:
The valuation of these coins list has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.
Old coins of Rhodesia
To facilitate their classification, we have decided to organise the coins according to their historical period, you can consult the coins by historical numismatic categories of Rhodesia.
British Colony 1946-1970 Republic 1970-1980Coin Catalog
Rhodesia | 6 pence (5 cents)
Rhodesia | 1 shilling (10 cents)
Rhodesia | 2 shillings (20 cents)
Rhodesia | 2½ shillings (25 cents)
Rhodesia | 10 shillings
Rhodesia | 1 pound
Rhodesia | 5 pounds
Rhodesia | 3 pence
Other resources to find coins and banknotes of Rhodesia
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