Sir Milton Augustus Strieby Margai PC (7 December 1895 – 28 April 1964) was a Sierra Leonean physician and politician, head of government from 1954 until his death in 1964. Margai studied medicine in England and returned to her homeland to become a prominent public health campaigner. He entered politics as the founder and inaugural leader of the Sierra Leone People's Party. Margai oversaw Sierra Leone's transition to independence, which took place in 1961. He died in office at the age of 68 and was succeeded by his brother Albert as Prime Minister. Margai enjoyed the support of Sierra Leoneans of all classes, who respected his moderate style, friendly demeanor and political savvy.

Milton Margai was the first Prime Minister of Sierra Leone, holding the position from 1951 to 1964. It was under his leadership that Sierra Leone gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1961. Margai played an important role in the development of the Sierra Leonean economy, and coinage began during his reign. In 1954, the first Sierra Leonean coins were minted. These coins are worth 1, 2, 6, 12 pence and 1 shilling. The coins were made from an alloy of bronze, nickel and silver. In 1964, after Margai's death, a new series of coins was minted. These coins were produced in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents. The coins were made from an alloy of copper, nickel and silver. In 1964, the first Sierra Leonean banknotes were issued. These notes were produced in denominations of £1, £2, £5 and £10. The banknotes were issued by the Bank of Sierra Leone. A number of commemorative coins were also minted during Margai's reign. These commemorative coins were made to commemorate the country's independence, Margai's death and other important events. Margai played an important role in establishing the Sierra Leonean mint. Under his leadership, Sierra Leone became an independent nation and introduced its own currency. Margai's legacy lives on today in Sierra Leone's currency, the leone.