MTB ZAR Pattern coins
Province of the Transvaal

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An extremely rare pattern piece of which there are single digit figures reported (perhaps 5 or less in this range)! Only 3 recorded in NGC with 2 graded MS62 (Highest) and one at AU55. These are the original patterns used for the Gold Burgers Ponds made in 1874. The Hern's catalogue references that there are several variations of this pattern (Struck by Heaton & Son in England) with a few having large and small dates, 2 flagpoles only instead of 3, struck in different material (silver, copper, aluminum, brass) and changes in the beard on the obverse.
The obverse depicts President Burgers portrait with his name overarching on the top of the coin. Legend has it that President Burger made the decision to produce gold coins with the bust of him on the obverse without the consent of the committee. This sparked severe criticism and the committee who opposed any further coinage been issued with President Burgers bust on it. The majority of these gold Ponds was seen as a novelty by the citizens and only a few years later (as gold had not yet been discovered in the Transvaal) due to the scarcity of gold, did the coinage start to be circulated. The obverse is the Transvaal coat of arms. The composition of the coin is Bronze, the mass varies with the different patterns (4.27 down to 4.18 mg), thickness at 1.78mm and the diameter 22.23mm (similar in size to the gold Pond produced in 1874).