Malawi 10 Kwacha 2010

History

10 Kwacha 2010, KM# 197.2, Malawi, Birds of Prey, Madagascar Fish Eagle

Obverse. Photo © Coincraft

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	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.) Eagle 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	Reeded (milled)