South African rugby’s passion runs deep, and Springbok memorabilia captures its spirit in style. From signed jerseys to vintage programmes, special-edition newspapers, ticket stubs, and rare match posters, these treasures weave tales of heritage, with the Springboks—world rugby’s #1 team—standing tall as South Africa’s icon of pride and unity.
Where it all started
Springbok collectables began with the 1891 British Isles tour, where match programmes, team photos, and badges sparked fan excitement. By the 1920s, autographed jerseys and tour pins gained traction, particularly during the 1921 Australia and New Zealand tour. The 1930s and 1940s saw further growth, with rare items like hand-stitched rugby balls and tour medals from the 1937 Springbok tour to New Zealand becoming prized keepsakes. Post-World War II, the 1950s and 1960s brought iconic memorabilia, such as signed team posters from the 1951–52 British Isles tour. By the 1980s, limited-edition prints and commemorative medallions, like those from the 1981 controversial New Zealand tour, marked key moments despite rugby’s political challenges. These decades built a rich collecting culture, bridging early souvenirs to modern treasures.
Modern Treasures and World Cup Glory
Today, 1995 Rugby World Cup jerseys—especially those signed by legends like Francois Pienaar—remain pure treasure, symbolising post-apartheid unity and the Springboks’ trailblazing triumph. With three more World Cup victories since (2007, 2019, and 2023), memorabilia from these eras has soared in value, blending nostalgia with modern glory. Coveted items now include Siya Kolisi-signed kits or Eben Etzebeth-autographed jerseys, fetching premium prices for their role in ongoing national inspiration. Recently, two framed 2015 Springbok jerseys, signed by all 36 living captains from 1960 to 2024 (including Pienaar, Kolisi, and Etzebeth), launched for auction with opening bids of R150,000 each!
Collectable Coins: A Global Appeal
Collectable coins add special prestige to rugby memorabilia collections. For example, the 1995 Rugby World Cup One Ounce Gold Proof Protea Coin and the 1995 Protea RWC 1oz Gold Proof Coin were released to commemorate the event being held in South Africa. Internationally, the 2007 Monnaie Paris RWC 1/2oz Gold Proof Coin is a limited-edition commemorative piece issued by the French Mint to honour the 2007 Rugby World Cup hosted in France, and the 2023 French 1 Kilo Silver 500 Euro coin celebrates rugby’s 200th anniversary with designs that pulse with the sport’s energy. The Paris 2024 Olympic Mascots coins mark rugby’s Olympic return, while coins in everyday circulation, like the 2023 €2 Rugby World Cup coin, the United Kingdom’s 1999 Rugby World Cup £2 coin, and Australia’s 2025 Wallabies and Wallaroos $2 coin, bring heritage to all.
Starting Your Rugby Coin Collection
Collecting isn’t just flags and mugs—it’s about holding history. Coins are shrewd choices that appreciate over time while preserving rugby’s glory. Want to start collecting rugby coins? Here’s how:
- Learn the Game: Research rugby’s history and key coins to spot value.
- Check Your Change: When you’re next in the UK, Europe, or Down Under, cheering on the Boks, keep your eyes peeled for circulating coins—pockets might hold hidden gems!
- Check Authenticity: Buy from reputable dealers with certificates, avoiding unverified online auctions full of fakes.
- Protect Your Coins: Store them in acid-free holders, away from sunlight and moisture, to keep them pristine.
Springbok memorabilia, especially coins, links fans to rugby’s legacy. Whether you’re a Bok die-hard or a global enthusiast, these collectables add lasting value to your collection. Start collecting coins and own a slice of history today.
Get Your Memorabilia Party Started with Bobble Bokke!
For those craving a fun spin on Springbok memorabilia, meet the Bobble Bokke—an officially licensed line of bobblehead figurines that’s stealing hearts and spicing up collections. These hand-painted treasures feature 11 iconic players and coaches in green-and-gold glory. Picture Siya Kolisi hoisting the World Cup as captain or Handré Pollard, the crucial strike specialist —each certified by the MyPlayers Organisation for authenticity, with common and rare variants to spark your collecting fever
The Bobble Bokke are a cheeky salute to rugby’s spirit, blending craftsmanship with fan passion. Perfect for shelf swagger or gifting to a Bokke mate, they’re an easy way to jump into collecting. Bobble Bokke stretch the Springboks’ legacy beyond the pitch, turning everyday moments into mini-celebrations of unity and triumph. Whether you’re crafting a squad or just dig the nod, they bring irresistible, head-bobbing charm to any memorabilia lineup.
About The South African Gold Coin Exchange & The Scoin Shop
The South African Gold Coin Exchange & The Scoin Shop, established in 1972, is the market leader in collectable coins, renowned for its legacy in preserving South Africa’s numismatic heritage. CEO Rael Demby says, “Our passion for rugby and history drives us to curate coins that honour the Springboks’ legacy, connecting collectors to moments of national pride.
The post Springbok Rugby: Bokke Passion Shines in Memorabilia Mania appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
