​The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has received enquiries regarding the value of the 2008 Mandela commemorative circulation coin.The South African Mint (SA Mint), a wholly owned subsidiary of the SARB, annually produces world-class numismatic coins covering a range of themes (e.g. The Natura series, The Krugerrand series etc.). These are sought after by collectors, both domestic and international. The SA Mint, at the request of the SARB, periodically also produces special themed circulation coins.The SARB issues commemorative circulation coins as part of its production of currency and they are usually issued to commemorate an event that involves a wider section of society, and such coins are made available and accessible to the public at face value. Such coins are always minted in large quantities.  For example, the commemorative Mandela circulation R5 coin that was issued in 2008 to commemorate former president NelsonMandela’s 90th Birthdayis worth R5, or whatever a buyer is willing to pay for it.  A buyer could be willing to pay a higher price to collect such a circulation coin. Therefore, they would also preserve such a coin to retain its quality.Special edition commemorative coins (including uncirculated sets of circulation coins etc.) are issued by the SA Mint in limited quantities, and are accessible to members of the public that can afford to pay higher prices. Such limited edition collectors’ coins are usually packaged in capsules and are accompanied by relevant certificates to prove their authenticity.  The value of these coins is set by the collectors’ market and the SARB cannot speculate on this value.  It is important for the public to note that while there are many honest and reputable coin dealers that offer collectable coins at fair prices, there are also those that can charge unrealistic prices, or sell coins that are only worth their face value to the public at inflated prices. Members of the public are advised to do their homework and shop around to compare prices between dealers before deciding to transact. The SARB urges the public to familiarise themselves with the differences between a circulation coin and other limited edition coins.A point to remember is that if you received the coin as change, then it is worth its face value, for example the R2 commemorative circulation coin of the100thanniversary of the Union Buildings that has recently been released is worth its face value of R2. For more information please visitwww.samint.co.za Issued by: Hlengani MathebulaHead: Group Strategy and CommunicationsTel: +27 12 313 4210Cell: +27 82 448 9219 Enquiries:Nosipho TheyiseMedia Co-ordinatorTel: +27 12 313 3465