THE NELSON MANDELA COMMEMORATIVE R5 COIN IN SOUTH AFRICA

The Nelson Mandela R5 set combines two circulation coins which are both significant in terms of South Africa 's history and numismatic tradition. In keeping with South African numismatic tradition, the outgoing President is depicted on the obverse of the highest denomination circulation coin a year after he has left office. Therefore in the year 2000, former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was featured. The 2000 R5 coin featured a smiling Nelson Mandela wearing his iconic "Madiba" shirt. This info rmal depiction of a head of state differed from the norm. The coin captures the character of Nelson Mandela. He is portrayed not only as a symbol of the new democratic South Africa, but also as the person people recognize and relate to.