Maltese pataca facts for kids
The pataca was a special copper coin used in Malta a long time ago, between the 1500s and 1600s. It was a bit unusual because its value was actually higher than the copper it was made from! This kind of coin is called a fiduciary coin.
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Why Was the Pataca Created?
In 1530, the islands of Malta and Gozo were given to a famous group called the Order of Saint John by Emperor Charles V.
Building a New City
Later, in 1565, Malta faced a huge battle known as the Great Siege of Malta. After this siege, a new, strong city called Valletta had to be built. This was a massive project that needed thousands of workers.
Paying for the Work
Building Valletta was very expensive. To help pay all the workers, the Maltese pataca coins were made. They were copper coins, but people trusted them to be worth more than just the metal. The coins even had a special message written on them in Latin: "Non aes sed fides". This means "Not money, but trust."
When Did They Stop Making Patacas?
The last time these coins were made was during the time of a leader named Grandmaster Jean de Lascaris.
