By: Julia Montlha, Curator, Numismatic Collection – DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History

The South African Republic (ZAR), also known as the Transvaal Republic, was an independent Boer state that existed from 1856 to 1870 and again from 1881 to 1902. During the late 19th century, the ZAR encountered significant economic difficulties, including a shortage of currency. To address this, the government introduced a temporary form of currency known as “Little Notes.” These were a series of banknotes issued by the Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek in 1871.

The circulation of these notes was limited to the Transvaal region. Authorised by the ZAR government and signed by the state president, they gained validity. Printed in small denominations, the notes included six pence (6d), one shilling (1s), two shillings (2s), five shillings (5s), and ten shillings (10s). They circulated alongside other currencies, such as British coins and banknotes, and were accepted by merchants and traders. The notes were in circulation from 1871-1874.

The Little Notes are considered an emergency currency, offering insight into the economic challenges faced by the ZAR government in the 19th century and the innovative measures taken to address the problem. They represent the historical currency that was used in the region before the introduction of the South African pound and, later, the Rand.

Printed in black ink on thick white paper, the notes measured 75 x 50 mm. Their design prominently features the coat of arms of the Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR) at the centre, with “EEN SHILLING” (one shilling) written in both Dutch and English on either side. The issuing authority, “PRETORIA DEN 1872” is printed above the coat of arms. The note was signed by F. Jeppe as treasurer and the signature of the state president is in the bottom right corner with the year “187”.. printed above. A unique serial number is also printed on the bottom left.

The banknotes were signed by the representative of the then-president of the ZAR, Thomas Francois Burgers. He was the fourth president of the republic from 1872 to 1877.

The Little Notes highlight the necessity for a standardized currency, paving the way for the introduction of formal banknotes and coins. Their simple design, featuring handwritten signatures and serial numbers, influenced the future design of South African Republic currency. As part of South Africa’s numismatic heritage, these notes serve as a reminder of past economic challenges and innovative solutions.

The Little Notes were not the only measure taken to address currency shortages. During the Anglo-Boer War, various forms of emergency currency were issued to alleviate money shortages and support the war effort.

Examples of emergency currency issued during times of financial hardship in the South African Republic include:

• Boer War notes
• ‘Veld ponde’
• ‘Noodgeld’
• Gold vouchers

Today, the Little Notes are regarded as a fascinating part of the financial history of the South African Republic. Their rarity and historical significance have made them highly valuable collector’s items.

The photographs below provide examples of the Little Notes currency, showcasing their design, features, and historical significance.

Figure 1: Little note: Five Shillings (DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History Numismatic Collection

Figure 2: Little note: Ten Shillings (DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History Numismatic Collection).

Figure 3: Little note: One Shillings (DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History Numismatic Collection).

Figure 4: Little note: 2/6D (DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History Numismatic Collection).

Figure 5: Little note: 6D (DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History Numismatic Collection).