Description

The 2005 Pan-Blue visits to mainland China marked significant exchanges between the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Chinese Communist Party, the highest since the 1945 meeting between Chiang Kai-shek and Mao Zedong. At the time, the Kuomintang was Taiwan's main opposition party, part of the Pan-Blue Coalition, which favored closer ties with China and opposed the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), known for its pro-independence stance. On March 28, 2005, KMT vice chairman Chiang Pin-kung led the first official delegation to China in 60 years. On April 26, KMT chairman Lien Chan followed with a peace tour, meeting Chinese leader Hu Jintao to discuss cross-strait relations and affirming the "One China principle." Lien's tour included visits to Xi'an, Nanjing, and Shanghai, highlighting historic and economic ties.

Obverse

Depicts a third crowned portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth II facing right, wearing the George IV State Diadem, country name with date above, and Malawi emblem below.

The George IV State Diadem, also known as the Diamond Diadem, was created in 1820 for King George IV. It is traditionally worn by queens and queens' consort during coronation processions and State Openings of Parliament. This iconic piece has appeared in paintings, on stamps, and currency, and is displayed in the Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace.

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 2005
UNITY AND FREEDOM

Reverse

Depicts multicolored Taiwan's opposition leader Lien Chan and Chinese President Hu Jintao handshake, flags of China and Taiwan below them, denomination above and inscription of the event below meaning "Kuomintang and Communist Party handshake" the main two parties in China and Taiwan

Hu Jintao (born December 21, 1942) is a retired Chinese politician who served as general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (2002-2012), president of China (2003-2013), and chairman of the Central Military Commission (2004-2012). Rising through the CCP, Hu gained attention for his leadership in Guizhou and Tibet, where he harshly suppressed dissent. During his tenure, he emphasized state control in some sectors, oversaw China's economic growth, and promoted the "Harmonious Socialist Society" for socio-economic equality. Known for his modest, consensus-based leadership style, Hu voluntarily stepped down after 10 years, succeeded by Xi Jinping.

Lien Chan (born August 27, 1936) is a Taiwanese politician who held several key positions, including Chairman of the Taiwan Provincial Government (1990-1993), Premier (1993-1997), Vice President (1996-2000), and Chairman of the Kuomintang (KMT) from 2000 to 2005. He ran for President in 2000 and 2004 but lost both times to Chen Shui-bian of the Democratic Progressive Party. Upon retiring as KMT Chairman in 2005, Lien became Honorary Chairman. He is best known for his historic 2005 visit to mainland China, where he met Chinese leader Hu Jintao, helping to ease cross-strait tensions.

100 KWACHA
國共握手

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Gold
Fineness 0.999
Weight 7.87 g
Diameter 25 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

Related coins

Republic, Peace Tour

2005 Pan-Blue Visits to Mainland China

Gold Plated Bronze