Today, the Krugerrand is one of the most widely traded and recognized gold coins among investors worldwide. But its history, closely tied to that of South Africa, makes it much more than just an investment coin.
Here’s how the Krugerrand became a true numismatic icon and a mainstay of the gold market.
The Birth of the Krugerrand (1967): A Revolution in Investment Gold
The Krugerrand was created in 1967 by the South African Mint and the Rand Refinery.
The goal was to make it easy for individuals to invest in gold by creating an affordable, standardized, and widely recognized coin.
At the time, no other modern gold coin was designed purely for investment purposes. Existing coins were often limited editions, intended for collectors, or difficult to obtain.
The Krugerrand changes everything:
✔ 1 ounce of pure gold
✔ a coin produced in very large quantities
✔ a simple and easy-to-understand format for investors
The result: an instant global success.
Why is it called the “Krugerrand”?
The name combines:
• Kruger: in honor of Paul Kruger, president of the South African Republic in the 19th century and a symbol of Afrikaner nationalism.
• Rand: South Africa’s national currency.
His portrait appears on the obverse of the coin.
The reverse side features the springbok, the country's national animal.
An exceptional piece: composition and distinctive features
A Krugerrand always contains exactly 1 ounce (31.103 g) of pure gold.
However, its total weight is slightly higher: 33.93 g
Why?
Because the coin is alloyed with a small amount of copper to make it more durable, giving it its characteristic slightly reddish hue. Purity: 916.7‰ (22 karats)
Fine gold: 31.103 g
Diameter: 32.7 mm
The 1970s and 1980s: The Krugerrand dominates the world… then is banned
In the 1970s, the Krugerrand accounted for more than 90% of the global market for bullion coins. It became the international benchmark for measuring the price of gold in coin form.
But in the 1980s, everything changed.
Because of apartheid, many countries (the United States, Europe, etc.) imposed a trade embargo, banning the importation of Krugerrands.
Result:
Investors are turning to other coins, such as:
• the Canadian Maple Leaf
• the American Eagle
• the Britannia
• the Chinese Panda
After 1994: The Krugerrand's Big Comeback
With the end of apartheid and Nelson Mandela’s rise to power, the embargoes were lifted. The Krugerrand naturally regained its place on the global market.
Even today, it remains:
✔ one of the most recognized gold coins
✔ a highly valued safe-haven asset
✔ a benchmark for investment
The different versions: much more than just the classic one
Since its success, the Krugerrand has been available in several sizes:
• 1/2 oz
• 1/4 oz
• 1/10 oz
• 1/50 oz (introduced in 2017 to mark the 50th anniversary)
And since 2017, there has even been:
- a silver Krugerrand
- a platinum Krugerrand
Why is the Krugerrand still investors' favorite coin?
The Krugerrand continues to be popular in 2026 for several reasons:
Very easy to resell
Its global popularity makes it immediately liquid.
Always 1 ounce of pure gold
A perfect benchmark for tracking the price of gold.
Sturdy and durable
Its alloy makes it less prone to scratches.
Low premium
It is one of the least expensive gold coins to buy relative to the spot price.
Where can I buy or sell a Krugerrand in Belgium?
Whether you own a Krugerrand or are interested in purchasing one, our experts are here to assist you at our four branches:
📍 Braine-l’Alleud
📍 Wavre
📍 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre
At Agence de l’Or, you’ll enjoy:
✔ the official exchange rate updated in real time
✔ professional expertise
✔ fast payment
✔ transparent support
A legendary piece, a timeless investment
The Krugerrand is more than just a gold coin: it is a powerful symbol with a unique history. In 2026, it remains an ideal choice for investing or diversifying your portfolio.
If you have any questions or would like a free estimate, please stop by one of our branches.