Launch of the Man and the Biosphere: Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve Coin Series.

This week was a very special one for our area, on the eve of heritage day SA Mint in collaboration with the Kogelberg Biosphere launched a series of commemorative coins celebrating a journey through one of the most beautiful areas in South Africa, our very own Kogelberg.

The launch ceremony took place at the Waterkloof Estate, with magnificent views across the reserve.  As part of the many invited to represent the area, I felt tremendously proud of this incredible part of the world we get to call home. The collection included four gold and silver coins beautifully illustrated with well-researched scenes from the reserve.

My favorite was of course the Silver R2 coin depicting the Elgin Valley, featuring the honey bee and orchard fruit (above right).

“Queen Kogel” Joanne Strauss beautifully adorned in Okasie outfit and headdress was a charming hostess. We learnt a great deal about the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program passionately and cleverly explained by Johan West (chairman of the KBR) and Dr Ruida Pool-Stanvliet.

Lunch served a creative array of local produce paired with Waterkloof Wines.

All in all, a truly uplifting and inspired occasion, a showcase of our rich fauna and flora and a fantastic advert for our area. The coins will no doubt continue to carry the message and attract an even greater interest in this magnificent part of the world.