Ghana 1958 One Penny
Country of Origin: Ghana
Year of Issue: 1958
Denomination: One Penny (1d)
Composition: Bronze (97% Copper, 2.5% Zinc, 0.5% Tin)
Brief Description
A large bronze coin featuring the portrait of Kwame Nkrumah on the obverse and a five-pointed star on the reverse.
Historical Significance
This coin belongs to the first series of coinage issued after Ghana gained independence from British colonial rule in 1957. Featuring Kwame Nkrumah, the first Prime Minister and President, it symbolizes the transition from the British West African Pound to Ghana's first independent currency system.
Estimated Value
$1-$5 circulated, $15-$40 in high uncirculated (MS-63+) grades.
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule. Avoid cleaning, as the bronze patina is sensitive; skin oils can cause dark spotting or 'fingerprinting' over time.
Mint Mark
None (Heaton and Sons Mint, or Royal Mint London; usually no mark visible)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; mintage of approximately 14,000,000.
Weight & Diameter
9.45g weight, 30.8mm diameter
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated. The coin shows excellent detail in the hair and sharp legends, with minor surface marks and traces of possible luster remaining in protected areas.
Obverse (Front)
Right-facing portrait of Kwame Nkrumah. Legend: 'CIVITATIS GHANIENSIS CONDITOR' (Founder of the Ghana State) above and 'KWAME NKRUMAH' below between stars. Designed by Philip Nathan (initials P.N. visible).
Reverse (Back)
A large five-pointed star in the center. Legend: 'GHANA' at top, 'ONE PENNY' at bottom, with the date '1958' split by the star's top point.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/Grade is the primary factor. While a high mintage coin, specimens with original mint red luster are highly sought after by collectors of African coins.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the British West African Penny of the same era, which features a hole in the center, or the half-penny version which is smaller (25.5mm).
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Counterfeits are rare for this denomination. Check for the sharp 'P.N.' initials on the shoulder and ensure the weight is close to 9.45g.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Proof versions exist, which command significantly higher prices ($100+).
Created At: 2026-06-03T21:43:41.079289