Obverse. Photo © zoloto-md.ru
  • 20 Kwacha 2010, Malawi, Treasures of St. Petersburg, Hermitage and Alexander Column
  • 20 Kwacha 2010, Malawi, Treasures of St. Petersburg, Hermitage and Alexander Column
Description

Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, Saint Petersburg is not only a city rich in beauty and attractions, but it also served as the capital of Imperial Russia under the rule of the tsars. This has left the city with a remarkable historical legacy and an array of grand palaces from the tsarist era. Despite the fall of Tsarist Russia, many of these opulent structures remain, now preserved as key tourist attractions. The St. Petersburg palace coin series offers a glimpse into the lives of the city’s aristocratic families, such as the Yusupovs, Stroganovs, and Sheremetyevs, each palace holding its own secrets and stories.

For three centuries Saint Petersburg was the capital of Russia. The richest people of the Empire lived and worked here while investing money in their beautiful city. Nowadays royal palaces became the state museums but locals still live in former aristocratic mansions. Numerous architectural gems, unusual historical places are open to the public yet are hidden from the eyes of tourists. This tour is designed for those who want to see more than typical places in a popular guidebook. Special and rare spots only locals know, but with great historical and art value.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms of Malawi within a circle below the country name, a map of the whole Russian Federation Republic pointed to St Petersburg on the map, denomination at the left and year of issue 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
UNITY AND FREEDOM
St. Petersburg
MWK 20
2009

Reverse

Depicts a multicolored general view of the Alexander Column in the Palace Square in front of the Hermitage Museum all behind the Narva Triumphal Arch, the title series "Treasures of St. Petersburg" above.

The Alexander Column is a monumental triumphal column located in Palace Square, St. Petersburg, Russia. Erected in 1834 to commemorate the Russian victory over Napoleon in the War of the Sixth Coalition, the column is named after Tsar Alexander I, who led Russia during the conflict. Standing 47.5 meters (155 feet) tall, it is made of a single piece of red granite and topped with a statue of the tsar in imperial attire. Designed by architect Auguste de Montferrand, the column’s simplicity and grandeur make it a striking feature of St. Petersburg’s architectural landscape. The Alexander Column remains a symbol of Russian resilience and the nation's triumph in one of the most significant conflicts of the 19th century.

The State Hermitage Museum, located in St. Petersburg, Russia, is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. Founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great, it houses an extensive collection of art, cultural artifacts, and historical objects from around the globe. The museum is situated across several buildings, the most famous of which is the Winter Palace, the former residence of Russian tsars. The Hermitage’s collection spans over three million items, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and many other renowned artists. Known for its stunning architecture, vast galleries, and rich history, the Hermitage is a symbol of Russia's cultural heritage and a major center for art and history.

The Narva Triumphal Arch is a monumental arch located in St. Petersburg, Russia, built to commemorate Russia’s victory over Sweden in the Russo-Swedish War (1741-1743). Erected in 1814, it was designed by architect Giuseppe Quarenghi in the neoclassical style and stands as a symbol of Russia's military triumphs. The arch is situated at the intersection of the Narva Highway, which leads out of the city, and was originally part of a larger celebratory complex. Featuring a central archway flanked by columns and adorned with sculptural reliefs, the Narva Triumphal Arch is a prominent architectural landmark in St. Petersburg, reflecting the grandeur and pride of Russian military achievements in the early 19th century.

TREASURES OF ST. PETERSBURG
Hermitage Museum
&
Alexander Column

Edge

20 Kwacha

Republic

Treasures of St. Petersburg
Hermitage and Alexander Column

Subscribe series
KM#
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.999
Weight 31.1 g
Diameter 45 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

Related coins

Republic, Saint Isaac's Cathedral

Treasures of St. Petersburg

Silver, 31.1 g, ⌀ 45 mm