Introduction
The commemorative 2 euro coin issued in 2023 celebrates the 225th anniversary of the arrival of the French in Malta. This landmark event in Maltese history took place in 1798, during the French Revolutionary Wars.
Historical context
French forces, commanded by Napoleon Bonaparte, took control of Malta in 1798. This event brought ideals of freedom and equality, lastingly influencing the island. The arrival of the French initiated administrative and legal reforms inspired by revolutionary ideals.
Design and Symbolism
The piece represents a female figure allegorical of Liberty. She is seated and holding a spear with a Phrygian cap at the top. This hat symbolizes freedom and revolution. Beside him, plant motifs and a scale of justice represent equality and justice.
Registrations and Details
On the left of the figure, the inscription “Freedom” recalls the fundamental principle of the French Revolution. On the right, the inscription “Equality” reinforces this message. Above the figure, the text “225TH ANNIVERSARY ARRIVAL OF THE FRENCH IN MALTA” commemorates this historic event.
Years and Border
The years “1798-2023” are inscribed to the right of the figure, marking the period since the arrival of the French in Malta. At the bottom of the coin, the year “2023” indicates the year of issue of this commemorative coin. The outer border of the coin is decorated with twelve five-pointed stars, representing the member states of the European Union. These stars surround the central motif and the inscriptions, forming a symbolic crown.
Conclusion
This commemorative 2 euro coin honors a key event in Malta’s history. It celebrates the ideals of freedom and equality introduced by the French in 1798. Commemorating the 225th anniversary of this event, the coin highlights the lasting impact of these ideals on the island of Malta. It also recalls the importance of freedom, equality and justice, values dear to the French Revolution. The piece, through its design and inscriptions, pays homage to this historical period and its founding principles.
| Country of Issue: |  |
| Date of issue: | September 14, 2023 |
| Total mintage: | 80.500 |
| – Proof: | 0 |
| – BU: | 80.500 |
| – UNC: | 0 |
| Engraver: | Noël Galea Bason |
| The edge: |  |
| Rarity: |   |
| Official Journal: | 2023/C 204/09 |
| My collection: | Je n'ai pas cette pièce (0) Please login to bookmark
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Do you want to know the technical specifications of this coin? Feel free to visit the page dedicated to the specifications of a 2-euro coin.
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