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Obverse of 1988 Botswana 5 Pulas
Obverse of 1988 Botswana 5 Pulas

Countries
Olympic Runners on Reverse of 1988 Botswana 5 Pulas
Olympic Runners on Reverse of 1988 Botswana 5 Pulas

Botswana
Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name upon independence in 1966. Four decades of uninterrupted civilian leadership, progressive social policies, and significant capital investment have created one of the most dynamic economies in Africa. Mineral extraction, principally diamond mining, dominates economic activity, though tourism is a growing sector due to the country's conservation practices and extensive nature preserves.

Botswana Coins
Botswana's first coinage was issued in 1966 upon independence. There were 100 cents = 1 thebe. It appears that only gold 10 Thebe coins and silver 50 cent coins were issued as independence commemoratives, although there is some evidence that at least some of the silver coins circulated. Some time after, the coinage was reformed, and the next coin issues were in 1976, when both ordinary circulation coins and commemorative coins for the tenth anniversary of independence, were issued, with 100 thebe = 1 pula. We tend to see very few Botswanan coins, although some such as the olympic commemorative 5 pula in our photographs, are quite attractive.

Specifications
DenominationDiameterWeightAlloySilver
Five Pula38.61 mms28.28 gramsSterling Silver0.8411

Notes
Silver = actual fine silver content in troy ounces.

Ipelegeng
The word "IPELEGENG" appears on this coin, and on most coins of Botswana. So far we have been unable to find what it means. Using Google to search the internet, we have found a number of references, but nothing which begins to explain its meaning. Our best guess is that it is a place name, but we have not been able to find it on any map or in any gazetteer. It may be a "Swana" word with a special meaning, but again we have been unable tot check this. When we discover its meaning, we will give an explanation here. If anybody out there knows, please let us know!

Prices and Availability
DateDenominationDescriptionMintageGradeAvailabilityPrice £Price $Price €
19885 PulaOlympic Runners25,000FDCYes£20$40€30
19862 PulaWWF World Wildlife Fund Collection - Green Turtle Silver Proof Crown25,000FDCYes£$€

Postage & Packing:
UK: At buyer's Risk £2.50 or
Fully Insured £6 (Usually by Royal Mail Special Delivery)
USA: Airmail at buyer's risk $10 or
Fully Insured $20
For further details, please see our Postage & Packing page.

Order Form - UK

Order Form - USA


...at the Official Issue Prices

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