Kruger Millions facts for kids
The Kruger Millions is a famous legend about a huge hidden treasure. People believe gold and diamonds were buried in South Africa. This was supposedly done by or for President Paul Kruger. He wanted to keep it safe from the British during the Second Boer War.
The legend says this treasure is worth over $500,000,000 today. It is thought to be hidden near the Blyde River in Mpumalanga province. Many people have searched for it, but no one has found the main treasure yet.
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The Legend of the Kruger Millions
The story of the Kruger Millions began during the Second Boer War (1899-1902). This war was fought between the British Empire and two independent Boer states. One of these states was the South African Republic. Its president was Paul Kruger.
As the war went on, the British army advanced. President Kruger and his government had a lot of gold and coins. They feared the British would capture this wealth. So, the legend says they decided to hide it.
The treasure was supposedly buried somewhere between 1899 and 1902. The exact location is a mystery. Many people believe it is hidden in the Blyde River area. This area is known for its beautiful landscapes.
Who Was President Paul Kruger?
Paul Kruger (1825-1904) was a very important leader in South African history. He was the President of the South African Republic. This was also known as the Transvaal. He served as president from 1883 to 1900.
Kruger was a key figure in the Boer resistance. He fought against British rule in the region. He is remembered as a symbol of Boer independence.
The Second Boer War
The Second Boer War was a major conflict. It happened between 1899 and 1902. The war was fought between the British Empire and the two Boer republics. These were the South African Republic (Transvaal) and the Orange Free State.
The war was about control over land and resources. Gold and diamonds had been discovered in the Boer republics. This made the region very valuable. The war ended with the British winning. The Boer republics then became part of the British Empire.
The "Lost Hoard" Discovery
While the main Kruger Millions remain a legend, a related discovery was made. In February 2021, news articles reported something exciting. A collection of old South African coins was found. These coins were called "Kruger ponds."
These coins were produced in South Africa. They were made between 1893 and 1900. The collection has been named the "Lost Hoard." It is now available for sale.
What Are Kruger Ponds?
Kruger ponds are gold coins. They were minted in South Africa. They are named after President Paul Kruger. These coins were part of the money used in the South African Republic.
The "Lost Hoard" coins have been checked by experts. They were verified by the Numismatic Guarantee Corporation. This company is in Florida, USA. The value of each coin changes. It depends on its condition and the year it was made. Prices can range from R14,500 to R250,000.
How to Get the Lost Hoard Coins
The "Lost Hoard" coins are sold by the South African Mint. This is a part of the South African Reserve Bank. The coins come in special sets. Each set also includes a replica of the original money bag. This bag supposedly held the coins for over 100 years.
There are two main sets available:
- The first set has an 1893-1900 Lost Hoard Kruger half-pond. It also includes a 2019 1/10 oz gold Krugerrand coin. Only 233 of these sets were made.
- The second set contains an 1893-1900 Lost Hoard Kruger full pond. It comes with a 2019 quarter oz gold Krugerrand coin. There are 677 units of this set.
