Unveiling the Value: A Comprehensive Guide to Collectables Sought by NextExchange
- Karen Scheepers
- 3 minutes ago
- 4 min read
The realm of collectables, encompassing everything from historic coinage to military memorabilia and vintage toys, is vibrant and diverse. However, for those looking to sell their accumulated treasures, understanding which items hold significant monetary value is crucial. NextExchange specializes in acquiring a focused range of collectables, recognizing that not all items possess inherent market worth. Indeed, it is estimated that only about 20% of all coins and banknotes encountered truly command a desirable value.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the specific categories and periods of interest to NextExchange, offering clarity on the items they are actively seeking to purchase.
💰 Sought-After Currency and Coins
ZAR Period Coins
Coinage from the South African Republic (ZAR) period is highly regarded and consistently sought after. This range includes fractional denominations such as the 1 penny, 3 pence, and 6 pence, alongside higher value pieces like the 1 shilling, 2 shilling, half crown, and 5 shilling. Of particular interest are the precious metal coins: the gold ½ pond and the gold 1 pond. While all these ZAR coins possess decent intrinsic value, the final price is heavily influenced by the coin’s overall condition. NextExchange encourages sellers to present any items they may have from this historical era.
Union of South Africa Period
The Union of South Africa period covers a broad spectrum of coinage, from the smallest ¼ penny right up to the gold pond. For the majority of these coins, condition remains a primary factor in determining the price. However, the silver and gold coins from this era retain value even if they are in poor or damaged condition, due to their precious metal content. Furthermore, NextExchange has a keen interest in acquiring all proof sets issued during the Union of South Africa period.

Republic of South Africa Period
Value within the later Republic of South Africa coinage period is more concentrated. Only a select few circulating coins hold substantial value:
The R1 coins from 1965 to 1976.
The R1 from 1965 in Afrikaans language variation.
The 1 cent from 1965 in Afrikaans language variation.
The 50 cent from 1965 in English language variation.
Most other circulation coins from this period do not hold great value. Nevertheless, NextExchange actively purchases proof coin sets from the Republic era.
Special and Graded Coins
The South African Mint regularly produces special, non-circulating collector’s coins. These are specifically manufactured for the collector’s market and are of significant interest to NextExchange. Additionally, the company is interested in acquiring proof coin sets and un-circulated coin packs post 1994. Beyond local currency, NextExchange buys graded coins from both South Africa and the rest of the world.

Banknotes
NextExchange buys banknotes from South Africa and the rest of the world. The most critical factor in determining the value of any banknote is its condition. The company is particularly interested in purchasing large collections of banknotes.
🥇 Gold and Silver Assets
NextExchange maintains a strong interest in all forms of precious metals. They are consistently looking to purchase gold and silver coins and jewellery. Importantly, the jewellery does not need to be intact; even broken gold or silver jewellery is purchased based on its metal weight.

⚔️ Militaria and Antiques
Militaria
There is a constant demand for old Military items from South Africa and internationally. Items sought include Medals, Berets, Belts, Insignia and badges, swords and bayonets, and uniforms. For South African uniforms, the cut-off date is strictly pre-1994. While items from any country are considered, a high preference is given to Rhodesia militaria.
Antiques and Collectables
NextExchange buys interesting antiques and collectables. This includes categories such as good porcelain, Hallmarked silver, Africana, and Toys. Furthermore, the company specifically seeks Vintage toys, with a preference for items still in their original packaging, such as action figures and model cars.

🗺️ NextExchange’s Operational Model
NextExchange operates a safe and professional purchasing system. Each week, the company books a venue in a different town, allowing sellers to bring their items for valuation. This provides a secure setting for all transactions. Payment is made instantly via EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) to the seller’s bank account. For customers with substantial collections, NextExchange may also arrange to travel to the customer's location, provided the value of the stock makes the trip worthwhile. Based in Gauteng, the company also sees private customers daily in their own homes.
It is important to note that NextExchange operates within normal business hours and may not always be able to accommodate every seller's price expectation, though they strive for fairness. Sellers with large, nice collections are highly encouraged to make contact. For the latest schedule of buying events and further details, potential sellers can visit the 'what we buy' page on the affiliated website, www.vintagevault.co.za.
📍 NextExchange in Potchefstroom
NextExchange will be in Potchefstroom on Tuesday, 17 December, from 09:00 to 15:00, at The Willows Garden Hotel, 82 Govan Mbeki Dr.
The focus for this event includes: gold (coins & jewellery), silver (coins & silverware), Krugerrands, SA-Union silver, ZAR, Tickeys, Sixpence, Shillings, Florins, Crowns, Half-Crowns, Southern Rhodesian coins & banknotes, and a major focus on militaria (medals, bayonets, knives, uniforms, and more).
NextExchange sees every person privately and professionally, therefore they work strictly by appointment only.
To book your time slot, please WhatsApp Joubert at 060 953 1625.

🤝 Final Appraisal
For individuals looking to responsibly sell their high-value collectables, NextExchange offers a clear, professional, and secure channel. By focusing on specific, value-driven categories, ranging from ZAR and Union-era coins to pre-1994 militaria and precious metals, the company ensures they are interested in the items that truly hold market worth. Sellers are advised to carefully review the categories of interest and to prioritize the condition of their items, especially banknotes and non-precious metal coins, before arranging an appointment.
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