Oliver Tambo Centenary Coin Launch

About This Project

As part of the celebrations of Oliver Tambo’s centenary, the South African Reserve Bank, along with South African Mint and the Oliver & Adelaide Tambo Foundation launched Oliver Tambo coins. In her opening remarks, the programme director Masechaba Ndlovu described the day as a day to behold, and the event as the capturing of a great legacy. Acting Mayor of Ekurhuleni, Councillor Doctor Xakaza went on to describe the celebration of OR’s centenary as an opportunity for all those in leadership to showcase OR’s leadership styles.

The Governor of the Reserve Bank, Mr Lesetja Kganyago described OR’s values of integrity, trust and accountability, and his clarity of thought in making decisions, as the same values that are integral to the Reserve Bank’s processes. He explained the integrity of coins and notes in circulation being of the utmost importance, in order to remain a secure method of payment and the custodian of wealth for South Africans.

In his speech, the Managing Director of SA Mint Mr Tumi Tsehlo described the Mint as being responsible for the preservation of South Africa’s heritage, and pride in the South Africa’s constitution – a constitution that has been described as having Oliver Tambo’s DNA in it, through the coins it mints. He explained that the Oliver Tambo coins being launched on the day were the first of a series of coins called “South Africans Celebrations”, which will celebrate South African heroes.

On behalf of the Oliver & Adelaide Tambo Foundation, chairperson Dr Frene Ginwala spoke about the pride she felt, and implored all South Africans to celebrate OR, who embodied the values of humanity and integrity – and all other values that are enshrined in the constitution of South Africa.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr Dali Tambo revealed that the beauty of occasions such as this one is the coming together of people that were a big part of their lives growing up. Illustrating his father’s humility, Tambo told a story about how their mother had wanted a book written about OR, but in true OR style, he refused. He said he’d rather their story was told by others. Dali described the launch of the Oliver Tambo coins a wonderful platform of remembrance for Oliver Tambo, and an expression of values and ideals for which OR stood.

The celebrations were closed by a performance from the Positive Vibrations group from the Albert Luthuli School.

Olive Tambo Coins

• R5 circulation coins, worth its face-value.
• R50 sterling silver coin [collectible].
• R50 base metal coin [collectible].
• R500 pure gold coin [collectible].

*PLEASE NOTE: Collectible coins can be purchased from authorised dealers: https://goo.gl/fLhrCF  or at SA Mint: http://www.samint.co.za

Multimedia

[justified_image_grid rml_id=42]