Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 25 Cents 1975-1985, KM# 29, Malta, 1st Anniversary of the Republic of Malta
  • 25 Cents 1975-1985, KM# 29, Malta, 1st Anniversary of the Republic of Malta
Description

Republic Day (Maltese: Jum ir-Repubblika) is a public holiday celebrated in Malta on 13 December. It celebrates the anniversary of the creation of the Republic of Malta in 1974, and the ending of the role of Elizabeth II as Queen of Malta, under which Sir Anthony Mamo, the last Governor-General, was sworn in as the first President. British troops did not leave the country until 31 March 1979.

Obverse

Depicts the coat of arms, surrounded by the new name of the Republic of Malta above and the date below.

The coat of arms was adopted on 11 July 1975, seven months after Malta became a republic. It featured a coastal scene with a rising sun, a traditional Maltese boat (Luzzu), a shovel and pitchfork, and an Opuntia cactus. The emblem sparked controversy due to its non-heraldic nature, and it was replaced shortly after the Nationalist Party's victory in the 1987 election. While there were suggestions to reinstate the 1964 coat of arms, a simplified version of it was ultimately adopted.

·REPUBBLIKA·TA'·MALTA·
1975

Reverse

Depicts a large value in the middle; along the top edge a wreath of grape leaves.

25
CENTS

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Nickel Brass
Weight 10.5 g
Diameter 30 mm
Thickness 2.1 mm
Shape polygon
Sides 8
Alignment Medal
Mint
Royal Mint

Related coins

1st Anniversary of the Republic of Malta

Bronze, 10.5 g, ⌀ 30 mm

1st Anniversary of the Republic of Malta

Cupronickel, 10.6 g, ⌀ 30 mm