Malawi 6 Pence 1964-1967

History

Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com

Description

In 1964, copper-nickel coins were introduced in denominations of 6d, 1/–, 2/–, and 2/6, all featuring a portrait of Hastings Banda. In 1967, 1d coins were added to the series. The 1d coin had a smooth edge, while the others had 4x4 interrupted milling. The abbreviation "d" for penny, such as in 1d, comes from the Roman denarius.

There are two primary groups identified:

Obverse:
• Die 1: Bold "P.V." initials, with many curled lines in the headdress
• Die 2: Fine "P.V." initials, with nearly all lines in the headdress curled

Reverse:
• Die A: Long, curved back feathers at the bottom of the tail
• Die B: Short, curved back feathers at the bottom of the tail

Combinations:
• 1+A: 1964 business strike, proof; 1967.

Engraver: Paul Vincze

Obverse	Person (politician, revolutionary, entrepreneur) Hastings Banda Depicts a portrait of Hastings Banda right, country name in banner below. Hastings Kamuzu Banda (c. 1898 – 1997) was the leader of Malawi from 1964 to 1994, serving as Prime Minister and then its first president when the country became a republic in 1966. Educated abroad in fields like medicine and history, Banda returned to Malawi to advocate for independence from British colonial rule. He declared Malawi a one-party state under the Malawi Congress Party, and in 1971, became its President for Life. Despite modernizing infrastructure and education, Banda's rule was marked by severe repression, human rights abuses, and political killings. Under pressure, he agreed to end the one-party system in 1993 and lost the 1994 election. P.V. MALAWI
Reverse	Animal (fish, bird, mammal etc.) Rooster Depicts a crowing rooster standing right, date above, and denomination in English letters below. 1964 P.V. SIX PENCE
Edge	Interrupted reeded