Obverse. Photo © Black Mountain Coins
  • 250 Shillings 1998, KM# 49a, Somalia, Wildlife of Somalia & East Africa, Ostrich
  • 250 Shillings 1998, KM# 49a, Somalia, Wildlife of Somalia & East Africa, Ostrich
Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Somalia, surrounded by the country name in English and the denomination in English below.

The coat of arms of Somalia, adopted on October 10, 1956, features a shield embellished with the Somali flag, accompanied by two Leopards standing atop crossed spears. Positioned at the center of the flag is the Star of Unity, and a crown adorns the top of the shield. Completing the emblem are crossed spears underneath, entwined with a ribbon.

REPUBLIC OF SOMALIA
250 SHILLINGS

Reverse

Depicts a multicolored ostrich walking on grasses surrounded by inscriptions, and date below.

Ostriches are substantial flightless birds, recognized as the heaviest and largest living avians. Adult common ostriches can weigh between 63.5-145 kilograms, and they lay the most massive eggs among all living land animals. These birds are the fastest on land, capable of reaching speeds up to 70 km/h (43.5 mph). They are raised globally, with notable industries in the Philippines and Namibia. The valuable ostrich leather and large feathers are utilized for ceremonial headgear decoration. Humans have been using ostrich eggs for various purposes for thousands of years.

WILDLIFE OF SOMALIA & EAST AFRICA
· 1998 ·

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Tri-Metallic
Outer ring Brass
Inner ring Cupronickel
Center Brass
Weight 21.9 g
Diameter 38 mm
Thickness 2.4 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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