1/4 oz Krugerrand

The 1/4 oz Krugerrand is a fractional gold bullion coin issued by South Africa. Known for its distinctive design and high gold content, the Krugerrand is one of the most popular gold coins globally, making it a favored choice among investors and collectors alike.

Why is the Coin Famous?

The 1/4 oz Krugerrand is famous for its historical significance and its role in the gold bullion market. Introduced in 1980 as a smaller counterpart to the 1 oz Krugerrand, it allowed more investors to own a piece of this iconic gold coin. The Krugerrand was the first gold coin to contain precisely one ounce of fine gold and was intended to provide a convenient way to trade gold. Its design, featuring Paul Kruger and the South African springbok, has remained consistent over the years, adding to its recognizability and appeal.

Who Designed the Coin and Why?

The 1/4 oz Krugerrand, like its larger counterpart, features designs by Otto Schultz and Coert Steynberg. Otto Schultz designed the obverse, which depicts Paul Kruger, the fifth President of the South African Republic, symbolizing the country's history and heritage. The reverse, designed by Coert Steynberg, features a springbok antelope, one of South Africa's national symbols. These designs were chosen to reflect both the political and natural heritage of South Africa.

Coin Specifications and Symbolism

• Weight: 8.48 grams
• Gold Content: 91.67% gold (0.25 troy oz of pure gold)
• Diameter: 22 mm
• Thickness: 1.8 mm
• Edge: Reeded

The 1/4 oz Krugerrand is minted in 22 karat gold, with a small amount of copper added for durability. This makes it slightly heavier than its pure gold content. The reeded edge helps deter counterfeiting and adds to the coin's aesthetic appeal.

1/4 oz Krugerrand Coin Value

The value of a 1/4 oz Krugerrand is primarily linked to the current market price of gold. However, certain mintage years and mint marks can contribute to a coin's numismatic value. For instance, coins from years with lower mintages or coins that have been well-preserved over the decades can command a premium over the standard bullion value.

While the Krugerrand does not feature mint marks to distinguish different production facilities, specific years, such as those from the early 1980s, may be more sought after due to their historical context and lower production numbers compared to later years. Collectors and investors often seek these coins for both their gold content and their historical significance.

In conclusion, the 1/4 oz Krugerrand is a highly recognizable and valuable gold coin, prized for its gold content, historical design, and investment potential. Its value fluctuates with the gold market, but certain years can carry additional premiums due to their relative scarcity and condition.