50 Thebe

2013 year


Nickel clad steel	5.3 g	24 mm

Description

Issuer	Botswana
Period	Republic (1966-date)
Type	Standard circulation coin
Year	2013
Value	50 Thebe 0.50 BWP = USD 0.038
Currency	Pula (1976-date)
Composition	Nickel clad steel
Weight	5.3 g
Diameter	24 mm
Thickness	1.8 mm
Shape	Round
Technique	Milled
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Updated	2024-10-04

References

Numista	N#57875
Rarity index	11%

Reverse

African fish eagle flying left, holding a fish, denomination above

Script: Latin

Lettering:
50
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 50 Thebe coin features the iconic image of a baobab tree, which is a symbol of longevity and vitality in Botswana's culture. The baobab tree can live for up to 1,000 years and is considered a sacred tree in many African cultures. It's a fascinating fact that this coin has an image of such a culturally significant tree, making it a unique and interesting collector's item.