The South African Gold Coin Exchange (SAGCE) and The Scoin Shop today (14 September ) launched the much-anticipated Mandela Red Ribbon Twinset. This follows the recent successful US launch of the medallion set at the S.A.Mission in New York.

The fight against HIV/AIDS is a cause that has touched many South Africans’ hearts – none more so than Nelson Mandela, who in 2005 disclosed that his last surviving son Makgatho Lewanika Mandela died due to Aids-related complications. Mandela’s disclosure was designed to break the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and to encourage South Africans to seek information about the disease and its treatment.

“South Africans have a long way to go to change perceptions in our country and Africa as a whole and to create the level of awareness required to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS. By introducing the new Mandela Red Ribbon Twinset we pledge our support for the stand Mandela took in highlighting the battle against HIV/AIDS,” says Alan Demby, SAGCE’s executive chairman.

The set consists of a gold Mandela medallion and a silver Mandela medallion, both of which feature an intricate engraving of Mandela on the obverse, with the HIV/AIDS awareness ribbon on the reverse. It also includes the Mandela quote that was part of his statement in 2003, when he addressed the world at the first 46664 concert: “AIDS is no longer a disease; it is a human rights issue.”

With a mintage of only 2 500, this set has attracted high levels of demand from collectors – as was evident from the recent US launch.

Part of the proceeds from sales of the sets goes to the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation in support of Mandela’s personal HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention campaign.