The most common currency coins in Kenya are made up of copper and silver. The East African Shilling was still used after the country gained independence until 1966.
The Kenyan currency replaced it the same year after being minted and issued.
Many types of coins have been used for transactions previously like brass, nickel and steel coins. However, did you know that the government through the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) have released gold coins at certain distinct times?
They are unique and special coins that have been issued to commemorate events regarding the nations and Central Bank of Kenya landmarks.
They are circumscribed in quantity - very scarce. To jubilate an important event or a person, several special coins are minted. They act as historical reminders for milestones that our country has achieved.
They were minted for special occasions as shown below
In 1966, three golden coins were minted to celebrate the 75th birthday of Kenya’s founding father, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.
After Jomo Kenyatta died in 1978, Daniel Moi took over as the second President of Kenya.
Gold coins were minted this same year to mark the day he was sworn into office.
In addition, 5000 shillings gold coins were minted in 2003 to celebrate 40 years of Kenya’s independence.
In 2013, 50-years-gold commemorative coins were minted to celebrate Kenya's liberty for 50 years.