Malawi 10 Kwacha 2010

History

10 Kwacha 2010, Schön# 197.10, Malawi, Birds of Prey, California Condor

Obverse. Photo © Coincraft

Description

The California condor (Gymnogyps californianus) is the largest North American land bird, with a wingspan reaching up to 3 meters (9.8 feet) and a weight of up to 12 kg (26 lbs). Once extinct in the wild in 1987, the species has been reintroduced in areas like Arizona, California, and northern Baja California, thanks to captive breeding efforts. It is critically endangered, with only about 561 individuals in existence as of 2024. The condor, a scavenger that feeds on carrion, has a lifespan of up to 60 years and is culturally significant to many Native American groups in California.

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 10 UNITY AND FREEDOM 10 KWACHA
Reverse	Colorised Animal (fish, bird, mammal etc.) Condor Depicts the multicolored standing California condor within a circle surrounded by the inscription of the series and her name below. BIRDS OF PREY CALIFORNIA CONDOR
Edge	Reeded (milled)