The Krugerrand contains exactly 1 troy ounce of pure gold in a 22-karat alloy (91.67% gold, 8.33% copper). Total coin weight is 1.0909 troy ounces (33.93 grams). The copper alloy gives the Krugerrand its distinctive reddish-orange tint and superior scratch resistance.
Introduced in 1967, the Krugerrand was the first modern gold bullion coin and single-handedly created the gold bullion coin market. At its peak in the 1970s and 1980s, Krugerrands accounted for 90% of the global gold coin market. Named after Paul Kruger (former South African president) and the rand currency, it features a springbok antelope on the reverse.
Krugerrands carry no face value denomination — their worth is based entirely on gold content. Premiums are typically 3-6% over spot, similar to Gold Eagles. During the apartheid era (1970s-1990s), many Western countries banned Krugerrand imports, which temporarily depressed prices. Today they are fully legal worldwide and remain the most widely held gold bullion coin in existence with over 50 million ounces minted.
Common dates trade at 3-6% over spot. Early dates (1967-1969) carry premiums. Proof versions are scarce and valuable. The most widely held gold coin in the world.