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RSA (Pre-1994): University of the Witwatersrand 50th Anniversary
RSA (Pre-1994): University of the Witwatersrand 50th AnniversaryRSA (Pre-1994): University of the Witwatersrand 50th Anniversary
RSA (Pre-1994): University of the Witwatersrand 50th AnniversaryRSA (Pre-1994): University of the Witwatersrand 50th Anniversary
RSA (Pre-1994): University of the Witwatersrand 50th AnniversaryRSA (Pre-1994): University of the Witwatersrand 50th Anniversary
Form: Circular. Gold proof-like; silver and bronze matt
By: Tommy Sasseen / South African Mint
Date: 1972
Ref:  AM2: 423; Laidlaw: 0496;
Variations:
SizeMetalMassValue
38.2 mmGold (18ct)44.4 gm$2,000
38.2 mmSilver29.,9 gm$30
38.2 mmBronze22.9 gm$10
Edge: Plain. All medals shown stamped with the issue number: "30".
Gold medal stamped: "(springbok head) 18CT x (for 1971) S.A.M".
Silver medal stamped: "(lion head) STG x (for 1971) S.A.M".

Obverse: Coat of arm of Witwatersrand University; shield with Kudu head crest and motto: "SCIENTIA ET LABORE". Signed diagonally: "TS" lower right. Dates downward: "1922 (left) 1972 (right)".

Reverse: View of the Great Hall on the East Campus of the University. Signed below left: "T.S.'

Notes: Comes in an oblong red fitted case. In gold on the outside of the lid, coat of arms and: "GOLDEN JUBILEE" below. Inside lined with while silk and red velvet. On the inside of the lid: "SAM".

AM2 records that 100 sets were issued. Additionally 100 silver and 650 bronze medals were made separately.

The university was founded in Kimberley in 1896 as the South African School of Mines. In 1920, the school was renamed the University College, Johannesburg. In 1922, the college was granted full university status after being incorporated as the University of the Witwatersrand. In 1923 the university moved into its present site in Milner Park. The Great Hall depicted on the medal was completed in 1925.