Most scientists consider Africa to be the origin of mankind. It is a continent of 53 independent countries with a rich mix of native peoples, cultures, economies and history. Almost completely encircled by water, it is home to vast deserts, tropical rain forests, rugged mountains and fertile grasslands. Its incredible natural beauty, National Parks and wildlife preserves attract an ever-increasing number of tourists from around the world. Egypt, South Africa, Somalia, Liberia and Ghana are among the most prolific producers of Non-Circulating Legal Tender (NCLT) coinage.