Independence Medal (Transkei)

The Independence Medal (Transkei) was a commemorative medal awarded by the Republic of Transkei, a nominally independent bantustan established by South Africa during the apartheid era. It was instituted to mark the territory's declaration of independence on October 26, 1976. The medal was awarded to individuals who had contributed significantly to the independence process or who held prominent positions in the Transkeian government and administration at the time. Specific criteria for awarding the medal are not widely available due to the non-recognized status of Transkei internationally and the dismantling of its government after the end of apartheid. As a result, information on the medal’s design, composition, and precise award criteria is limited and often found only in specialized numismatic or historical sources related to the former Transkei.