10 Thebe


Copper-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)	3.83 g	22.0 mm

Description

Issuer	Botswana
Period	Republic (1966-date)
Type	Standard circulation coin
Years	1976-1989
Value	10 Thebe (0.10&nbspBWP)
Currency	Pula (1976-date)
Composition	Copper-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)
Weight	3.83 g
Diameter	22.0 mm
Thickness	1.39 mm
Shape	Round
Technique	Milled
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized	1 July 2014
Updated	2024-10-04

References

Numista	N#1048
Rarity index	8%

Reverse

South African gemsbock (Oryx gazella), denomination above

Script: Latin

Lettering:
10
THEBE

Engraver: Michael Hibbit

Edge

Reeded

Comment

What does the word "Pula" mean? Pula literally means "rain" in Tswana language, because rain is very scarce in Botswana (most of the surface of Kalahari Desert is situated here) and therefore valuable and a blessing. The word also is the national motto of the country.

What does the word "Ipelegeng" mean? The word "Ipelegeng" literally means "to carry your own weight" or "to be self sufficient or independent", in general has got different meanings in Tswana language. Ipelegeng is also a South African city and a Botswana program created for reducing the poverty in the country.

Interesting fact

The 10 Thebe coin was designed by the Botswana artist, Themba M. Maswena, and features a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. On one side, the coin features a stylized image of a baobab tree, which is a symbol of longevity and vitality in Botswana's culture. On the other side, the coin features a portrait of Botswana's first president, Seretse Khama, who played a significant role in the country's independence and development. This blend of traditional and modern elements makes the 10 Thebe coin a distinctive and meaningful representation of Botswana's rich history and culture.