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RSA (Pre-1994): University of Cape Town 150th Anniversary

RSA (Pre-1994): University of Cape Town 150th AnniversaryRSA (Pre-1994): University of Cape Town 150th Anniversary
RSA (Pre-1994): University of Cape Town 150th AnniversaryRSA (Pre-1994): University of Cape Town 150th Anniversary
Form: Circular. Silver medal is proof-like.
By: Laurens de Lange / Pagliari, Cape Mint
Date: 1979
Ref:  Laidlaw: 0478;
Variations:
SizeMetalMassValue
38.2 mmSilver29.5 gm$30
38.3 mmBronze28.3 gm$15

Edge: Plain. Silver medal stamped: "S925" and "STG" and the Cape Mint hallmark.

Obverse: The old gate of the University. Signed below the left column: “LDL” and below the right: “78”. Signed below on the right: "PAGLIARI". Above: “SOUTH AFRICAN COLLEGE (in an arc) / SCHOOLS (across)” and below across: “UNIVERSITY OF / CAPE TOWN / 1829-1979”.

Reverse: Against a wavy background extending out to the rim of the medal and almost half way up from the bottom, coat of arms of the university with motto: “SPIES BONA” on open book. Signed below: “LDL” and “78” on either side of the anchor. Above across: “150 (large letters) / ANNIVERSARY”.

Notes: The silver medal issued inside a blue case inscribed: "(coat of arms) / UNIVERSITY / of / CAPE TOWN / 1829-1979" on the outside of the lid. The case is lined with white silk inscribed: "(coat of arms) / THE CAPE MINT / (Pty) Ltd / CAPE TOWN" and blue velvet.

The University of Cape Town was established in 1918. It had its origins in the South African College, founded in 1829 as a high school for boys. The College developed into a fully fledged university during the period 1880 to 1900. In 1918 the College separated into the South African College Schools and the University of Cape Town.

The 1829 coat of arms was retained with modifications.