Central Bank of Malta 1972 Cupro-Nickel Maltese Coin
Coin/Bullion · Mint of Malta / Royal Mint UK
Pattern: Maltese Decimal Coinage Series 1972
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Mint of Malta / Royal Mint UK
Material
Cupro-Nickel alloy (typically 75 percent copper, 25 percent nickel), lacking precious silver content despite metallic appearance
Dimensions
Standard circulating coin dimensions for the era, typically around 20-25 mm in diameter and weighing approximately 4 to 6 grams
Description
A well-preserved circulating coin from Malta dated 1972, featuring a striking nautical motif on the obverse or reverse showing a traditional Maltese galley or xprunara sailing boat over stylized waves, bordered by four seahorses and the nation name MALTA above with the year 1972 below. While often mistaken for silver due to its bright metallic sheen, it is composed of durable cupro-nickel.
Key Features
Central traditional Maltese boat design flanked by four seahorses, beaded border, bold sans-serif lettering spelling MALTA and the year 1972
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel alloy (typically 75 percent copper, 25 percent nickel), lacking precious silver content despite metallic appearance
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with milled rim, beaded border, and detailed bas-relief engraving of a traditional Maltese Xprunara boat flanked by seahorses
Hallmarks & Stamps
No precious metal hallmarks; features the country designation MALTA and the year 1972
Construction Details
Machine-minted via high-pressure coining press using hardened steel dies
Functional Features
Standard circulating currency coin designed for monetary exchange in Malta
Handle & Grip Details
Milled edge to prevent clipping and counterfeiting
Craftsmanship Details
High precision industrial coin striking with clean rims, well-defined relief, and uniform composition consistent with official mint standards
Authentication Indicators
Correct font, standard weight and size proportions for 1972 Maltese coinage, sharp die impressions characteristic of official state minting
Origin & Manufacturing
Valletta, Malta / Minted for Malta by a national mint such as the Royal Mint in the UK
Era & Period
Modern Period, Post-Colonial Malta (1972)
Age Estimate
Dated 1972, precisely mid-20th century
Cultural Significance
Celebrates Maltese maritime heritage, featuring historical vessels and marine life symbolic of the island nation's rich Mediterranean seafaring traditions
Condition Notes
Good to Very Fine circulated condition with light surface scuffs from everyday use, but retaining clear details on the central maritime engraving
Value Estimate
Modest collector or bullion value ranging from $1 to $5 USD depending on grade and specific denomination, primarily valued as a numismatic collectible rather than precious metal
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry coin flip or capsule to prevent further surface oxidation and environmental wear; avoid harsh chemical polishing
Similar Pieces
Other decimal and pre-decimal coins of Malta, as well as contemporary cupro-nickel coinage from Commonwealth nations minted in the early 1970s
Interesting Facts
Malta transitioned to decimal currency on May 16, 1972, making coins from this specific year historically significant markers of the nation's modernization and economic independence