Obverse. Photo © First Coin Company
  • 20 Kwacha 2011, KM# 210, Malawi, Art of Hunting, Elephant Hunting
  • 20 Kwacha 2011, KM# 210, Malawi, Art of Hunting, Elephant Hunting
Description

The Mint of Poland introduced the "Art of Hunting" collector coin series, showcasing traditional hunting scenes from different regions around the globe.

Elephant hunting is the practice of pursuing elephants, traditionally for their tusks (ivory), meat, or sport. Historically, it played a significant role in the ivory trade but is now heavily regulated due to the endangered status of elephants. Modern elephant hunting is illegal in many countries, and where allowed, it is often part of controlled conservation programs aimed at managing populations and funding wildlife preservation. Despite regulations, illegal poaching remains a major threat to elephant populations, leading to global efforts to combat it and protect these iconic animals.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Malawi dividing denomination, country name below, the series title "Art of Hunting" above with date and Pointer (dog breed), in a hunting position. The mint's mark (m/w) right 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.

The Pointer, sometimes called the English Pointer, is a medium-sized breed of pointing dog developed in England. Pointers are used to find game for hunters, and are considered by gundog enthusiasts to be one of the finest breeds of its type; however, unlike most other hunting breeds, its purpose is to point, not retrieve game.

ART OF HUNTING
2011
2 0
UNITY AND FREEDOM
KWACHA
REPUBLIC OF MALAWI

Reverse

Depicts the African bush elephant presented in the pad printing technique and colored, two hunters each holding a hunting rifle. In the background the landscape of a savannah with Acacia trees, grass, and a lake.

The African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana), also called the African savanna elephant, is the largest land animal, with males reaching up to 3.96 meters in height and weighing up to 10.4 tonnes. It is found across 37 African countries, inhabiting forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Listed as endangered since 2021, the species faces threats from habitat destruction and poaching for ivory. African bush elephants are herbivores and highly social, with females and their offspring forming herds while males live alone or in small groups. They have a long gestation period of 22 months, the longest of any mammal.

Edge

20 Kwacha

Republic
KM# 210 Schön# 207
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 28.28 g
Diameter -
Width 28 mm
Height 40 mm
Thickness -
Shape rectangular
Alignment Medal
Mint
Mint of Poland

Related coins

Republic, Duck Hunting

Art of Hunting

Silver, 28.28 g