Obverse. Photo © Coincraft
  • 10 Kwacha 2010, KM# 197.2, Malawi, Birds of Prey, Madagascar Fish Eagle
  • 10 Kwacha 2010, KM# 197.2, Malawi, Birds of Prey, Madagascar Fish Eagle
Description

The Madagascar fish eagle (Haliaeetus vociferoides) is a large bird of prey endemic to the coastal regions and rivers of Madagascar. It is closely related to other fish eagles and primarily feeds on fish, hunting in lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. With its distinctive dark brown body, white head, and powerful yellow beak, it is an impressive raptor, though it is often elusive. The species is critically endangered due to habitat loss, human encroachment, and declining fish populations. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this eagle, but with an estimated population of fewer than 120 breeding pairs, it remains one of the world’s rarest birds of prey.

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
20 10
UNITY AND FREEDOM
10 KWACHA

Reverse

Depicts the multicolored Madagascar fish eagle looking back in front of sea within a circle surrounded by the inscription of the series and her name below.

BIRDS OF PREY
MADAGASCAR FISH EAGLE

Edge

10 Kwacha

Republic

Birds of Prey
Madagascar Fish Eagle

Subscribe series
KM# 197.2
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver Plated Cupronickel
Weight 50 g
Diameter 50 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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