Orange Free State: pattern coins

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Map of Southern Africa, 1885.

The Orange Free State (Dutch: Oranje Vrijstaat; Afrikaans: Oranje-Vrystaat, abbreviated as OVS) was an independent Boer sovereign republic in Southern Africa during the second half of the 19th century, which ceased to exist after it was defeated and surrendered to the British Empire at the end of the Second Boer War in 1902.

The country officially became independent as the Orange Free State on 23 February 1854, with the signing of the Orange River Convention.

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These pattern pieces were struck by Otto Nolte and Company, Berlin, Germany.

They were samples that were intended to solicit orders.

The coins were designed and engraved by Wolfgang Lauer.

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Pattern penny, 1874.  Obverse.

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

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Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

A closer look at the mint marks in the exergue.

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Pattern penny, 1874.  Reverse.

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

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Pattern penny, 1888.  Obverse.

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

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Pattern penny, 1888.  Reverse.

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

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Pattern penny, 1888.  Obverse.  A different photo of a different specimen but of the exact same type.

"Geduld en moed" translates as "patience and courage".

The shield depicts three sheep, a lion, and a Voortrekker wagon.

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

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Pattern penny, 1888.  Obverse.  This is a nickel-plated piece.

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

Obverse and reverse of the nickel-plated pattern penny.

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Pattern crown, 1887.  Obverse.

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.

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Pattern crown, 1887.  Reverse.

Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.