10 Thebe


Nickel clad steel	2.8 g	18 mm

Description

Issuer	Botswana
Period	Republic (1966-date)
Type	Standard circulation coin
Years	1998-2008
Value	10 Thebe (0.10&nbspBWP)
Currency	Pula (1976-date)
Composition	Nickel clad steel
Weight	2.8 g
Diameter	18 mm
Thickness	1.75 mm
Shape	Round
Technique	Milled
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized	1 July 2014
Updated	2024-10-04

References

Numista	N#8959
Rarity index	7%

Reverse

South African gemsbock (Oryx gazella), denomination above.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
10
THEBE

Engraver: Michael Hibbit

Edge

Plain

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 portrait of the first president of Botswana, Sir Seretse Khama, while the other side features a stylized image of a baobab tree, which is a symbol of longevity and vitality in Botswana's culture. The coin's design was meant to reflect the country's rich history and heritage, while also showcasing its modernization and growth.