Silver Ounce 2022 Europa and the Bull, Coin from Malta - detailed information

The obverse of the coin shows at its centre the Coat of Arms of the Central Bank of Malta. At centre, a shield divided in three parts; in the top part, a horizontal key as a symbol of economic progress and security; the lower parts have "heraldic hatching" indicating a white background on the left, and a red background on the right - the colours of the flag of Malta; in the left part, the George Cross, awarded to Malta for bravery in April 1942 by King George VI. Above the shield, a crest surrounded by laurel and palm branches, symbols of honour and peace respectively, supporting a mural crown on top - symbolic of Malta's historic role as a fortress.

On the sides, the shield is supported by two armoured and helmeted Knights of Malta holding large swords, representing confidence and strength, the two virtues incorporated in the Bank's motto. These symbolise some of the greatest pages in Malta's long military history, which, for more than two-and-a-half centuries, was ruled by the Order of the Knights of St John of Jerusalem. The plumed helmet of a knight which surmounts the shield also has a special connection to Malta as it was modelled on one found on a monument in the 16th century Co-Cathedral of St John in Valletta, built by the Knights.

On a ribbon below, the motto in Latin: FIDUCIA FORTIS ("In Confidence Strength"), and the date the bank was founded, 1968.

Around above, the name of the issuing authority: CENTRAL BANK OF MALTA.

On the sides of the Coat of Arms, two small Maltese crosses. Below, the face value 1,5 EURO CENT (one and a half Euro Cent).

The background is textured with thin straight lines radiating from the centre.

The reverse design depicts a youthful and beautiful Europa riding the magnificent bull. She looks elegant and determined, fierce and brave, holding the bull’s collar in one hand. Europa and Zeus/the bull are surrounded by turbulent waters and are both looking in the same direction: Crete which they are trying to reach.

Around below right in the inner circle, 1 oz FINE SILVER 999 (one troy ounce of 99.99% silver). in the right field just above 999, the initials of the designer, JC (for Jody Clark).

Around above near the rim, the date of issue 2022. Around below, EUROPA AND THE BULL.

Finish: bullion (Brilliant Uncirculated).
Packaging: in individual capsule, or 20 coins in a mint tube.