How much is a Kruger Pond worth?
The value of a Kruger Pond varies tremendously depending on the following factors:
1. Selling to a Pawn Shop or Gold Dealer
Gold dealers will typically pay below melt value. They often sell Kruger Ponds to refineries, where the coins are melted—losing an important piece of South African history.
2. Selling to a Coin Dealer or Collector
A collector who needs the coin to complete a set may pay more than a dealer. Dealers usually offer less unless they have an interested buyer ready.
3. Rarity
Some Kruger Ponds are significantly rarer than others. For example, the 1892 Single Shaft is more valuable than the 1892 Double Shaft, despite the latter being removed from circulation. Similarly, the 1900 Pond is often more sought after than the 1898 even though it had a higher mintage.
4. Grade / Condition
This is the most important factor. A high-grade uncirculated coin can be worth 50 times more than a worn example. Below is a table of actual sales from 2011 for the 1892 Double Shaft Kruger Pond to illustrate the value increase with higher grades:
| Auction Prices for 1892 Double Shaft Kruger Pond (2011) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Hair | VF35 | XF45 | AU53 | AU55 |
| $400 | * | $850 | * | * |
* No auction result available for 2011.
| AU58 | MS61 | MS62 | MS63 | MS65 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,070 | $5,462 | $5,175 | $5,750 | $21,850 |
This 1892 Double Shaft Kruger Pond appears good to a layperson, but wear on Kruger's hair makes it low value—worth only a bit over gold price.
As of August 2011, gold was $1,660 per ounce, putting melt value near $400. In that market, the coin would sell for around melt price.
Graded VF35 by NGC. Some detail remains but still below collectable grade threshold.
XF45 by NGC—generally accepted as minimum grade for collectors. Sold for approx. $850 in Jan 2011.
AU53 example, beard and jacket better defined than XF45. Highly collectable.
AU55 shows improved definition on the jacket and features. Slightly higher in value than AU53.
AU58 is just below mint state. One sold for $2,070 in April 2011 in the U.S.
MS63 shows excellent detail and field clarity. In 2011, MS65 fetched $21,850. MS63 is typically worth around $8,000 depending on demand.
Need help with your Kruger Pond?
If you're unsure about grading or selling, feel free to send me a photo of your Kruger Pond for a second opinion.
Email: [email protected]
Or call toll-free in the USA: 1 877 486 2062
Note: All values are historical and based on 2011 auctions. Today’s market prices may vary based on gold value, collector interest, and grading.