The South African Reserve Bank has launched two commemorative R2 circulation coins marking 125 years since Charlotte Maxeke became the first black South African woman to earn a university degree and 70 years since the 1956 Women’s March against apartheid pass laws. They are the first South African circulation coins to feature women. The Maxeke coin features her profile in an Edwardian collar, with design elements inspired by beads she wore in her early years. The Women’s March coin depicts four women holding placards and facing the Union Buildings, where more than 20,000 women protested in 1956. Both coins form part of the Milestones of Freedom programme launched in June 2026.
2026-08-26South African Reserve Bank
South African Reserve Bank launches two R2 coins commemorating women’s milestones
The South African Reserve Bank has launched two commemorative R2 circulation coins honoring Charlotte Maxeke and the 1956 Women’s March. They are the first South African circulation coins to feature women and form part of the Milestones of Freedom programme.