Africa
Coins and banknotes from African countries, spanning colonial-era issues and post-independence currencies.
African coins and banknotes
African currency divides broadly into two periods, and the contrast between them is what makes the region interesting. Colonial-era issues follow European design conventions and often carry the arms or portrait of the administering power. Post-independence coinage moves decisively towards national symbols, local wildlife and figures from each country's own history.
Because many countries changed currency after independence, there are numerous short, self-contained series to complete.
Ways to collect
- Colonial versus post-independence — two distinct phases.
- By country — many nations have compact, completable series.
- Wildlife themes — a strong and popular design tradition.
- By region — grouping neighbouring countries together.