Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 20 Kwacha 1998, KM# 112, Malawi, 1998 Football (Soccer) World Cup in France
  • 20 Kwacha 1998, KM# 112, Malawi, 1998 Football (Soccer) World Cup in France
Description

The 1998 FIFA World Cup, hosted in France, marked a monumental milestone in football history. Paris, as one of the host cities, held a pivotal role in this prestigious tournament.

Running from June 10 to July 12, 1998, it was the 16th edition of the World Cup, featuring matches across various French cities and culminating in the final at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, a Parisian suburb. Thirty-two teams from around the globe vied for football supremacy, with the tournament delivering unforgettable moments, from spectacular goals to gripping matches and surprising upsets.

A defining highlight unfolded during the final match between Brazil and France in Paris. Led by captain Didier Deschamps and star player Zinedine Zidane, the French team showcased an exceptional performance, securing a 3-0 victory over Brazil to clinch their inaugural World Cup title. This historic win ignited jubilant celebrations throughout France, as millions of fans flooded the streets of Paris to revel in their team's triumph.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Malawi, date below and country name in Chichewa above.

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 MALAŴI
UNITY AND FREEDOM
1998

Reverse

Depicts a ball in the goal and the soccer player celebrating for scoring a goal within a circle surrounded by the inscription of the event and denomination below.

FOOTBALL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 1998
20 KWACHA

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.925
Weight 31.47 g
Diameter 38.6 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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