Malawi 10 Kwacha 2003

History

10 Kwacha 2003, KM# 80, Malawi, Pope John Paul II, Witness to Hope

Obverse. Photo © WCN

Description

Pope Saint John Paul II, born Karol Józef Wojtyła (1920–2005), served as Pope from 1978 to 2005. He was one of the most travelled world leaders in history, visiting 129 countries during his pontificate. As part of his special emphasis on the universal call to holiness, he beatified 1,340 people and canonised 483 saints, more than the combined tally of his predecessors during the preceding five centuries. He was the second longest-serving pope in modern history after Pope Pius IX, who served for nearly 32 years.

Obverse	Animal (fish, bird, mammal etc.) Lion, Leopard Coat of arms Malawi Depicts the coat of arms of Malawi dividing the date, country name above and denomination below. Malawi's coat of arms is based on Nyasaland's earlier heraldic arms. It features a shield supported by a lion and a leopard, standing on a representation of Mount Mulanje. The shield is divided into three parts: wavy lines symbolizing water, a central stripe with a lion representing strength, and a rising sun, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. Above the shield is a fish eagle in front of a rising sun, symbolizing freedom. The scroll below the shield bears the national motto, "Unity and Freedom," reflecting Malawi's goals of harmony and independence. REPUBLIC OF MALAWI 20 03 UNITY AND FREEDOM 10 KWACHA
Reverse	Costume (hat, dress etc.) Cassock Person (religious figure) Pope John Paul II Symbol, amulet, talisman Papal ferula Depicts Pope John Paul II smiling, wearing a cassock, and mitre and holding papal ferula, the inscription of occasion above, and His Holiness's name below. WITNESS TO HOPE POPE JOHN PAUL II
Edge	Reeded (milled)