Commemorative coins of Malta facts for kids

Malta, a small island country in the Mediterranean Sea, has a special way of celebrating important events, famous people, and unique parts of its culture: it issues commemorative coins! These aren't just regular coins you use every day. They are special coins made to remember something important.

Malta started making these special coins in 1972, when it had its own money called the Maltese lira. The very last commemorative coins made in Maltese lira were in 2007. These coins honored Jean De La Valette, a very important historical figure. On January 1, 2008, Malta joined the eurozone, which means it started using the euro currency. Most of Malta's special coins are made from valuable metals like gold or silver. Sometimes, they are also made from Copper and Nickel alloys.

What Are Commemorative Coins?

Commemorative coins are like tiny pieces of art or history. They are created to mark special occasions, anniversaries, or to celebrate important people, places, or ideas. Unlike the coins you use for shopping, these coins are often collected by people who love coins. They are usually made in limited numbers, which makes them even more special.

Malta's Special Coins

Malta has issued many different commemorative coins over the years. Each coin tells a story about Malta's rich history, its beautiful nature, or its important achievements.

Early Special Coins (1972-1980s)

The first special coins from Malta were released in 1972. They celebrated many different things:

• Some coins honored important Maltese people, like Manwel Dimech and Sir Temi Zammit.
• Others showed famous landmarks, such as Fort St. Angelo and the Mdina Gate.
• Nature was also featured, with coins showing the Merill (Malta's national bird) and the Maltese Falcon.
• Even traditional Maltese items like a stone charcoal stove (Kenur) and an ornamental door knocker (Ħabbata) appeared on coins.

In 1975, something interesting happened: the coins from that year were minted twice! They had slightly different designs on the back, showing different coats of arms. This makes them extra unique for collectors.

Later coins in the 1970s and 1980s continued to celebrate various aspects of Maltese life. For example, a 1977 coin featured the Kelb tal-Fenek, a special Maltese dog breed. Another coin in 1979 marked the end of foreign military facilities in Malta.

Coins Celebrating Malta's History and Culture

Many of Malta's commemorative coins highlight its deep history and vibrant culture.

• Coins have celebrated important historical events, like the 25th Anniversary of Malta's Independence in 1989.
• Famous battles and defenses, such as "430 Years in Defence Christian Europe" in 1993, were also remembered.
• The coins also honored important institutions, like the University of Malta and the Central Bank of Malta (CBM).
• Even international events, like the World Cup 1994 and the Olympic Games, were celebrated with Maltese coins.

Joining the European Union

A very important moment for Malta was joining the European Union (EU). On May 1, 2004, Malta officially became part of the EU. To celebrate this big step, Malta issued a special gold coin. This coin had a face value of Lm 25, which was a high value for a coin.

The Last Maltese Lira Coins

As Malta prepared to switch to the euro, the last commemorative coins in Maltese lira were issued in 2007. These coins honored Jean De La Valette, a Grand Master of the Knights of Malta who founded the capital city, Valletta. Both silver and gold versions of this coin were made.

What Happened After 2008?

After 2008, Malta began issuing commemorative coins in euros. These coins continue the tradition of celebrating Malta's unique heritage and important events, but now they are part of the larger euro coin series.