New R5 coin for Mandela's birthday

Limited Edition Coin - Issued On 18th July 2008

UNCIRCULATED

8 July 2008

South Africa has launched a special bi-metal R5 coin to mark the 90th birthday of former president Nelson Mandela.

The Nobel peace laureate is shown smiling and wearing one of his signature patterned shirts on the face of the coin, which was launched by the South African Reserve Bank, SA Mint Company and Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg on Monday.

"Today I am richer than yesterday," Mandela said at the unveiling.

The new coin will share Mandela's love, experience and leadership, said Finance Minister Trevor Manuel. "We are so privileged to have Madiba with us, who actively continues to provide leadership and who continues to be an example to all of us.

Five million of the coins have been minted and will go into circulation on Mandela's birthday on 18 July.