Obverse. Photo © Black Mountain Coins
  • 10 Kwacha 2003, KM# Pn6, Malawi, Antelopes of Africa, Blesbok
  • 10 Kwacha 2003, KM# Pn6, Malawi, Antelopes of Africa, Blesbok
Description

Antelope refers to various species in the Bovidae family found in Africa, India, the Middle East, and parts of Asia and Europe. They are not a monophyletic group, meaning some antelope species are more closely related to other bovids like cattle, goats, and sheep than to other antelopes. "True antelopes" include genera like Gazella, Nanger, Eudorcas, and Antilope.

Though often mistaken for deer, antelopes differ significantly, with deer being only distantly related. Antelopes have permanent horns, unlike deer, whose antlers shed and regrow annually. Antelopes are more common in Africa, while deer dominate regions like Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Obverse

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
UNITY AND FREEDOM
20 03
10 KWACHA

Reverse

Depicts an adult blesbok standing in a plain savannah with its name below right and the inscription semicircle in the left.

The blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi) is a subspecies of antelope endemic to South Africa, Eswatini, and Namibia, recognized for its distinctive white blaze on its face. It is closely related to the bontebok, with which it can interbreed. Blesbok are common in southern Africa's open grasslands, particularly in national parks, and avoid wooded areas. First described in the 17th century, they once roamed in large herds across the region.

ANTELOPE OF AFRICA
BLESBOK

Edge

10 Kwacha

Republic, Pattern
KM# Pn6
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 29 g
Diameter 38.5 mm
Thickness 2.3 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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