7 Valuable African Rare Coins With High Returns
Collecting precious coins is more than a hobby—it’s an opportunity to connect with history and unlock significant financial returns.
Valuable African Coins With High Returns
One of the rarest African coins is theBronze Pesa from 1890, minted during the German colonial era in East Africa. It features a crowned imperial eagle on one side and a wreath-encircled inscription on the other. This coin is a glimpse into the era when the German East African colony thrived, starting from the 1880s until the end of World War I.
Another fascinating piece is the1941 10 cents coin from East Africa. Known for its distinct doughnut shape, this coin emerged during World War II, at a time when East Africa was under Italian control and the British Empire was battling to reclaim the region. With King George VI’s name and the imperial crown engraved on it, this coin serves as a symbol of British victory and is currently valued at around $9.
From North Africa, the1968 Tunisia ½ Dinar stands out as a silver coin featuring Habib Bourguiba, Tunisia’s first president. It honors his leadership era, beginning from the nation’s independence and stretching into three decades of presidency. With inscriptions denoting “Central Bank of Tunisia” and “½ Dinar,” this coin is listed online for approximately $65.91.
West Africa’s history is represented through the1959 Nigerian Shilling, minted just before the country’s independence in 1960. Bearing Queen Elizabeth II’s profile and the inscription “QUEEN ELIZABETH THE SECOND,” this coin reflects Nigeria’s colonial past. It belongs to a series minted in 1959, 1961, and 1962, with the 1959 version valued at about $7.50.
Delving further into North Africa’s Ottoman past is the1829 Algerian ¼ Budju silver coin. This 2.59-gram silver piece displays the name of Ottoman ruler Mahmud II and harks back to Algeria’s era under the Ottoman Empire, which lasted from 1516 to 1830. The coin's value is estimated at $65.91.
One of the most extraordinary and expensive coins from Africa is the1898 “Single 9” Pond. This coin’s origin traces to the Boer War, during which the South African Republic had to improvise coin production after their minting dies were confiscated by the British. President Paul Kruger’s team stamped a single oversized ‘9’ on an 1898 coin to denote the new year—1899. Only one such coin was ever made due to its disproportionate appearance, making it one of the rarest coins globally. It was sold in 2010 for an astonishing $4 million.
Finally, the1975 Moroccan Hassan II 50 Dirhams coin is another treasure. It commemorates International Women’s Year and features King Hassan II’s side profile. On the reverse, it shows a hand within a compass symbolizing progress and unity. Minted in honor of women, this coin holds historical and cultural relevance and is priced at around $87.90.
Tips to Trade Rare African Coins
Building a rewarding coin collection takes time and patience. The best approach is to start small, acquiring coins gradually while learning their historical context and value. Rushing into large purchases without adequate knowledge could lead to costly mistakes.
Networking plays a crucial role in the world of coin collecting. Engaging with fellow numismatists can open doors to rare finds, detailed insights, and trading opportunities. Communities—both online and offline—often share valuable information about where to buy, trade, or auction African coins.
Coin expos and auctions are gold mines for discovering hidden gems. Attending such events can give collectors access to limited-edition coins, including those not easily found on mainstream platforms. It’s essential, though, to research ahead and confirm whether African coins will be available.
Lastly, profitability should always be a key consideration. While many collectors pursue this hobby out of passion, rare African coins—because of their limited availability and historical richness—can offer substantial returns. By combining a strategic approach with a love for history, collectors can transform their hobby into a profitable venture.