50 Thebe

1991 year


Nickel clad steel	11.17 g	28.5 mm

Description

Issuer	Botswana
Period	Republic (1966-date)
Type	Standard circulation coin
Year	1991
Value	50 Thebe (0.50&nbspBWP)
Currency	Pula (1976-date)
Composition	Nickel clad steel
Weight	11.17 g
Diameter	28.5 mm
Shape	Round
Technique	Milled
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized	1 July 2014
Updated	2024-10-04

References

Numista	N#11920
Rarity index	19%

Reverse

African Fish Eagle (Binomial Name: Haliaeetus vocifer), the national bird of Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Sudan, to the left, denomination above.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
50
THEBE

Engraver: Michael Hibbit

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 50 Thebe coin from Botswana features a unique design that showcases the country's rich wildlife. The obverse side of the coin depicts a majestic lion, while the reverse side features a beautiful image of a lechwe, a type of antelope that is native to the region. The coin's design not only highlights Botswana's natural beauty but also serves as a symbol of the country's commitment to conservation and wildlife preservation.